MacDonald Plumbing & Heating Supplies Limited has reportedly become the first business to take advantage of digital specialist RNF’s partnership with Sharp-aX Computer Systems Limited.
The partnership means any wholesaler using Sharp-aX ERP System can integrate with RNF’s Beam Commerce Platform, enabling them to offer customers 24/7 online ordering via a multi-platform app that works across desktops, tablets and mobiles.
As part of the deal, MacDonald Plumbing and Heating Supplies will also have access to RNF’s Beam customer engagement platform, giving them the ability to send out push notification campaigns to app users – a technique that is said to be proven to boost basket size – and sell advertising space within the app.
Paul MacDonald, Director of MacDonald Plumbing Supplies, said: “We’ve been looking at how to maximise the digital opportunity for a while but bespoke app development was out of our reach. The fact the Beam Commerce Platform is a white-label offering and integrates with our existing ERP system meant it was the perfect solution for us and an easy decision to make.
“Mobile ordering has become essential for plumbers and heating engineers who are on-site and need to get parts ordered ‘now’. We’re really excited to see the difference our improved customer service will make to our business.”
MacDonald Plumbing & Heating supplies is also an important new customer for RNF, which already enjoys a market-leading position in the wholesale food and drink sector.
Rob Mannion, RNF Managing Director, said: “It’s great to see the Beam Commerce Platform expanding into different wholesale sectors. As one of the fastest-growing channels in wholesale, digital is a crucial space for merchants looking to develop their offer for customers and make their service more accessible.
“The fundamental principles of online ordering and engaging customers effectively through timely, relevant push notifications and in-app advertising are exactly the same, no matter which sector you’re in.
“The Sharp-aX partnership means anyone using their ERP system can integrate seamlessly with our digital offer, driving sales and encouraging greater customer loyalty.”
Jean Freeman, Managing Director at Sharp-aX said: “We’re very excited to be working with RNF and to integrate the Beam Commerce Platform with our ERP software.”
