The SMD Group selects Epicor ERP to support ongoing growth

Epicor Software Corporation, the business software solutions provider for manufacturing, distribution, retail and services organisations, has announced that The SMD Group has chosen the next-generation enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, Epicor ERP, to streamline processes and provide increased visibility across the business to support its goals for continued growth.

Founded over 25 years ago, the SMD Group, which incorporates the brand iliv, supplies quality fabrics and wallpaper to contractors, designers, high street stores and independent retailers in over 40 countries around the world. The SMD Group focuses on making it easy for the customer to create, select and buy, offering great value, brand support and a personalised service.

Looking to build upon its domestic and export markets, the SMD Group required an upgraded ERP system which could help streamline its processes across its supply chain. Richard Hargreaves, Financial Director for the SMD Group explains, "We used the Gartner Magic Quadrant to analyse potential providers, and felt that Epicor could provide us with the platform we required to reach our goals. Previously relying on a specific textile orientated system which increasingly required bolt-ons, we needed an upgraded system that was user-friendly and would align our operations, increasing flexibility as we look at expanding our customer base."

With the support of Dot Net IT, a member of the Epicor Inspired Partner Network, Epicor ERP was selected due to its alignment with the SMD Group's goals for growth and cost efficiency. Hargreaves continues, "The software will be used throughout the business to streamline sales order processing, enhance our ecommerce platform and improve the made-to-order service we offer our customers. With 45-50 users relying on the software, we were impressed with how the system could be tailored to our needs as a smaller enterprise, and with the support that Dot Net IT and Epicor could offer us."

Founded in 2002, Dot Net IT is an established business solutions provider specialising in Epicor ERP, IT services/infrastructure and solutions. Gary Parfrey, managing director for Dot Net IT, said, "By working closely with the SMD Group we demonstrated the Epicor ERP system's capabilities and how those could align with their business strategy and goals; enabling SMD to grow their business, reduce costs and offer new products and services. We're excited at this opportunity to build a new and long lasting partnership with the SMD Group."

Martin Hill, vice president marketing for Epicor International explained, "With Epicor ERP, we are able to help the SMD Group simplify their systems and infrastructure. This will enable the team to gain great visibility into exactly what's happening at each stage of its production process and help support its ongoing growth goals."

Epicor ERP gives companies a technology platform that can inspire them as they conduct business today and in the future – on any device, anytime, anywhere in the world. It is an enterprise solution that supports growth and expansion into new markets, encouraging companies to connect with their customers, partners, employees and products in new and innovative ways.