Exploring ways to make windows more engaging

The challenge

creative design
production
print
storage, call-off & distribution
store audit
store profile database
installation
compliance improvement

In 2006, Blacks Outdoor Group, the activity clothing & equipment specialist, appointed a procurement consultancy to review and improve purchasing of POS across all their retail fascias: Blacks, Millets and Free Spirit. The key aims were to improve efficiency, reduce errors, shorten POS implementation time and reduce costs.

Our solution

We worked closely with Blacks' consultants to develop a more efficient process. Production costs were significantly reduced and time savings meant that campaigns could be implemented more quickly than before enabling Blacks to be more responsive in a fast moving market.

Initially appointed as a print supplier we successfully pitched for creative design and art working services through our agency Lick Creative. Once again we delivered significant cost reductions and shorter production times by introducing process efficiencies including automated artwork production.

Through MPD Fulfilment we are undertaking a survey of all 400+ stores to create an accurate store profile database. We then set up a dedicated fulfilment centre for POS storage, call-off and distribution including a dedicated order hotline.

The results

The Delta Group now provides an end-to-end visual communications solution to Blacks, Millets and Free Sprit including creative, print and fulfilment services. For the customer this delivers:

• shorter production time means campaigns are implemented more quickly
• more accurate distribution (get it right 1st time) means fewer call-offs & lower costs
• all print production under one roof means better quality control and colour consistency
• process efficiencies and new technology have resulted in significant client savings