Success Story

Guess plans to open more than 180 stores across Europe and has been using Colombus retail management software to improve stock and service levels
In March 2006, a new Guess store opened its doors in Portsmouth, England. A further +180 new stores are planned over the next three years, as part of an aggressive new strategy to develop the US fashion brand in Europe. According to Luca Tacchi, IT director for Guess Europe, so many new stores means a much greater need to manage the business more efficiently. And he acknowledges that without integrated retail technology, the company’s ambitions could not be achieved.


European IT rollout at Billabong
Boardsports brand implements retail technology to support international growth
In December 2006, a showcase Billabong store opened in Plymouth, England, as part of the rollout of new retail technology across Europe. The international boardsports brand, which sells apparel for men, women and children, as well as a range of accessories for surfing, skateboarding and snow sports, has been implementing retail management and point-of-sale software through VCSTIMELESS. The IT project started in May with the integration of the Colombus head office solution with Billabong’s existing financial system, running on an IBM AS400 platform. From September, stores throughout Europe will be linked to the system, giving them instant access for up-to-the-minute information on stock availability, replenishment, forecasts, sales and promotions.