Belgian DIY chain Hubo chooses IBS

IBS has singed an agreement with the do-it-yourself chain Hubo in Belgium regarding a new software solution, including software, services and hardware, to be used by the head office and all ninety stores. The total contract value is approximately SEK 19 m of which the value for IBS amounts to SEK 13 m.

Up until now, Hubo Belgium used a number of different software packages. "The use of all these different packages turned out to be very labor-intensive. It occurred more than once that data had to be entered several times," Patrick Mortier, Hubo project leader, explains. "To gain better control over the processes, it was important to find a total solution that could be used in  both our head office and in all our branches."

Hubo, which had a turnover of 300 million Euros last year, took no chances when it decided on its new software supplier. In February 2006, twenty suppliers  were asked to provide quotes. "We eventually whittled it down to four candidates,  who were all subject to a number of tests," says Mortier. The choice finally  went to IBS, since the communications with the company were excellent. "We had to  choose between two very similar suppliers. We chose IBS, because they are more of a partner than a supplier," states Mortier.

The implementation will begin with an extensive analysis stage. The changeover of the head office is expected to happen in February and March 2008, and  should be completed in the summer of 2008. After the summer, several stores will  run pilots in September and October. The actual changeover of all stores will  begin at the end of 2008. The complete implementation of IBS Enterprise, IBS Integrator, IBS NetStore, IBS Business Intelligence and IBS Catalog Suite  will be finalized in the course of 2009.

About IBS

IBS AB is a leading provider of business systems for supply Chain management, demand-driven manufacturing, customer administration and financial control. IBS's primary focus is large and mid-sized distributors as well as sales and manufacturing companies in international groups. IBS offers  industry solutions in such areas as pharmaceutical distribution, the automotive  industry, electronics, paper, publishing and a number of local niches.