News

17 January 2006

Specialist photographic retailer Jessops recently announced a 74.3 per cent increase in ‘direct’ sales in the five weeks to January 1, 2006. We take a look at how Jessops championed change in the last quarter of 2005 in order to position itself well for this expected growth in direct sales.

Jessops wanted to make sure they could maintain and improve customer service levels throughout this period of expected growth. In order to manage an increased number of orders, taken by their ‘direct sales’ arm (the internet, telesales and mail order), they identified the need to improve operational efficiency and streamline their despatch process. They also wanted to extend order cut off times and continue dispatching orders right through the Christmas holiday period, only taking a break on Christmas day.

By choosing a delivery management solution designed by MetaPack, Jessops reduced the complexity of a multi-carrier approach and successfully integrated with 6 home delivery carriers, in just 8 weeks. This has provided Jessops with the flexibility to change carriers quickly when necessary for continuity of service. For example, when one carrier closed for a few days over Christmas, Jessops were able to use another carrier to continue delivering and ensure the delivery requirements of their customers are met.

John Adderley, Director of Distribution, Jessops. “This commitment to our ‘direct’ sales channel forms part of our overall marketing strategy, ensuring that we have the operational flexibility to manage our customer’s expectations and keep “where is my order?” enquiries to a minimum. Not only was this crucial in time for the Christmas peak but it will also allow us to easily introduce new product ranges going forward”.

MetaPack’s delivery management solution has also significantly reduced the manual entry and copying of data previously involved with operating with more than one carrier. In addition, MetaPack’s solution uses standardized parcel label stationery, which means a separate printer and terminal for each carrier is no longer required, bringing about great flexibility and efficiency in the loading bays.

About Jessops

Jessops is the biggest high street retailer of everything photographic, with 285 stores nationwide. It sells a comprehensive range of cameras, camcorders, digital camera and accessories, as well as providing high quality developing and printing services.

About MetaPack

Established in 1999, MetaPack is the leading provider of delivery management solutions that promote best practice, transform online shopping and help retailers exceed customer expectations. MetaPack is the only company providing a single point of integration for all UK carriers and enables retailer to offer the widest range delivery options for online shoppers.

MetaPack provides delivery management solutions to blue chip retailers, including: Boots, B&Q, Comet, Currys, Dixons, Jessops, John Lewis, Mothercare, PC World, Screwfix and The Link. Information about MetaPack’s products can be found at www.metapack.com.