Emplas has announced that almost two-thirds of its trade customers are now opting to place orders online.
Emplas launched its online ordering system and Window Designer in 2013 and its new Door Designer early in 2015.
Accessed via the manufacturer’s Online Portal or EVA, the Emplas Virtual Assistant launched in April, installers can log-on from any PC, laptop, tablet or mobile phone, to access a secure quoting and order processing system.
Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas, said that a growing number of installers had moved to online placement of orders since the start of the year.
He said: “Anyone running a retail business knows that time is their greatest commodity and online ordering gives you some back. It also means that you can spend the day out installing or an evening quoting and then place orders at the end of the day and our customers want that sort of flexibility.”
The Emplas window and door designers allow installers to input a specification, choose glass, hardware and furniture and then automatically applies their discounts, to provide an instant quote. Where an order is placed installers get an immediate Order Acknowledgement.
Having extended product bar-coding and tracking to sealed units, in addition to frames and doors, last year, it also allows installers to track their order right up to the point of delivery, including a 30-minute notification before arrival.
Johnson continued: “That visibility is all important. It allows our customers to plan ahead with absolute confidence. They can see exactly where their order is and when it will be with them. This allows them to drive increased efficiency throughout their own operation.”
Emplas built on this core online offer with the launch of EVA, earlier this year. The new sales tool is fully integrated with Emplas’ online ordering system but also allows customers to manage leads, monitor performance and to access a marketing support programme. This includes SEO and e-marketing, through to website builds and even their own office assistant.
Johnson concluded: “It’s not all about digital. I firmly believe that this industry is built on relationships but where online tools offer our customers a tangible benefit, we’re committed to exploiting them for their benefit and as part of our continuing investment in service and quality.”
For more information on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 01933 674880.
