Abbots Cross, SPAR has been a cornerstone of the local community, operating under the SPAR brand for the past 7 years. Located in a lively neighbourhood, the store had historically catered to a loyal customer base, traditional consisting of elderly shoppers. However, by March 2024, it became evident the store was in desperate need of modernisation. Recognising the need for a change, the store transitioned to an independent operation, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Becky and Lucy McCammond, Store Managers of Abbots Cross, had previously worked in Henderson’s for the past 10 years. Recently, adopting this new role, they made it their mission to give the store an eye-catching look, whilst satisfying loyal and new consumer demands.
Since, Lucy and Becky took over in March, the fresh range has doubled in size, the Post Office has changed location to heighten an increase in football and EDGEPoS ESELS, Self-Checkouts, Glory Cash-Management and EDGEPoS Retail have been installed to finalise the future-proofing the store needed.
Since the change, the customer demographic has widened and the whole store appeals to various age groups. Becky stated, “We still have our loyal consumer base and assure to match their demands. They have been delighted their local store has been renovated”
The Decision to Implement EDGEPoS
The decision to implement EDGEPoS was driven by the store’s commitment to improving efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and streamlining operations. Having previously worked with EDGEPoS in other stores, Becky and Lucy were familiar with the system’s capabilities. Upon encountering a different system in Abbots Cross initially, they immediately recognised the need for change. The seamless integration of EDGEPoS was seen as an obvious choice, offering a range of benefits from enhancing customer experience to optimising Back-Office operations.
Investment in SCOs and ESELs
Beyond EDGEPoS, the Store Managers also made a strategic investment in Self-Checkouts (SCOs), and Electronic Shelf Edge Labels (ESELs). This decision was driven by the recognition that the future of retail is increasingly tech-driven. By equipping the instore refurbishment with all the latest technology, Becky and Lucy ensured that it could cater to all customer groups.
Additionally, the integration of ESELs brought significant operational efficiencies. The technology has drastically reduced the time required for promotional changeovers and ensured the accuracy of pricing labels, saving the equivalent of a day’s work for staff. The modern eye-catching design of ESELs also contributed to a more appealing shopping environment, further enhancing the store’s overall customer experience.
Overcoming Pre-Implmentation Challenges with EDGEPoS and GLORY
Before the implementation of Glory, the store faced numerous challenges, particularly around closing procedures, security, and queue management. The old system made closing the shop at night more difficult and posed security risks due to cash accessibility. Additionally, managing queues was a persistent issue, often leading to customer dissatisfaction.
EDGEPoS and Glory Cash-Management Systems have now addressed these challenges head-on. Both systems work in harmony to improve security with no cash-handling, streamline procedures and reduce queue times through the use of two SCOs being installed within the store.
Becky went on to say, “We invested in the latest technology to cater to all our customers, ensuring both convenience and efficiency. The Self-Checkouts manage queues during busy times, with staff and security cameras ensuring a smooth and secure experience. The Electronic Shelf-Edge Labels have saved us time during promotional changeovers, keeping our store accurate, eye-catching, and modern”.
Implementation process
The implementation process for EDGEPoS was smooth and efficient, with both Becky and Lucy expressing high satisfaction with Henderson Technology’s timeline and training services. Becky stated, “The in-store training provided by Henderson Technology and Glory was particularly beneficial, equipping staff with the necessary skills to operate the new systems confidently”.
Customer Transactions Through SCOs
Since the installation of SCOs approximately 42-47% of customer transactions have been processed through these systems. This high adoption rate underscores the success of the technology in meeting customer demands and offering a convenient shopping experience.
Overall Impact of EDGEPoS Technology
Becky went on to give her testimonial of Henderson Technology, “‘EDGEPoS has saved a lot of time. When we are short-staffed, it gives my team the ability to work more effectively between tills and floor operations. These products have only been installed recently, but we are already seeing a return on investment.”
Overall, the implementation of EDGEPoS Technology has had a profound impact on the stores margins and transaction values. The stores refit alongside the integration of cutting-edge technology has revitalised Abbots Cross.
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