Womenswear retail group Jacques Vert is to undergo a major overhaul of its IT systems, to support multi-channel growth.

Womenswear retail group Jacques Vert is to undergo a major overhaul of its IT systems, to support multi-channel growth.

Merchandise planning and supply chain software will allow the womenswear group to manage distribution of its brands, Jacques Vert, Planet, Precis Petite and Windsmoor, from the Far East and Europe to its central warehouse in the UK for redistribution or direct to stores in Canada. It will be implemented by early 2011 and will support the launch of a clearance website.

Maple Lake merchandise planning software and Retail Assist supply chain and warehouse management software are expected to reduce lead times by allowing the group to work more closely with suppliers and share more accurate sales data. The systems replace manual processes and complex spreadsheets for merchandise planning, and an ERP legacy system for supply chain management.

The supply chain and warehouse management software will enable store staff and concessions to check stock levels and organise inter-branch transfers whenever necessary.

Jacques Vert group finance director Ian Johnson said: “We need to be more reactive and operate a more effective supply chain to remain ahead of the competition. This means continually monitoring trends and identifying best sellers so that popular lines can be quickly replenished throughout the season.” Currently, planning for new lines is done a long time in advance with limited repeat buys.