New POS Systems for Liz Claiborne
Liz Claiborne Inc. is overhauling its instore point-of-sale system with help from the Microsoft Corp.’s new Smarter Retailing Initiative, which combines Microsoft operating systems technology with the POS systems of the technology company’s many business partners.
Liz Claiborne will install more than 1,000 Fujitsu TeamPoS 2000 terminals, which will run Microsoft’s Windows XP Pro and the NSB Group’s Connected Retailer Store program. The stores will also use Symbol Technologies Inc.’s hand-held scanners running Microsoft Windows CE to upload data into the inventory management system.
The system will be installed in 335 stores operating under brands within the Claiborne stable. Among them are Dana Buchman, Elisabeth, Ellen Tracy, Laundry by Shelli Segal, Liz Claiborne, Lucky Brand Jeans, Mexx USA and Sigrid Olsen.
The new system will replace systems that are about 12 years old. Liz Claiborne officials said store managers will be able to access applications from the register and spend more time on the floor assisting customers and overseeing customer flow and employee performance.
“This is an excellent example of how technology innovations will change the rules of engagement with the customer and the customer’s in-store experience,” said Brian Scott, general manager for the Retail and Hospitality Industry Solutions Group at Microsoft. “In this case, store management and employees will be much more visible and available to interact with customers, rather than being tied up in the office doing paperwork and managing inventory.” —R.M.
