Pret: replacing procurement system
Pret A Manger needed to improve the functionality of its purchase order system and ensure the technology supported business processes.
Learn how we integrated into Pret’s team to deliver a robust, fit-for-purpose solution for the global business.
Pret’s purchase order system was unstable and not working effectively. Its software reseller was struggling to resolve the problems. In addition, the system didn’t fully support Pret’s desired business processes.
Pret needed total visibility of, and control over, spend and budget at every stage of the purchase process. It was key to have a single system that integrated seamlessly with the SunSystems financial management software, across all Pret’s operating markets.
Pret had been struggling to find internal resource to devote to this project. Embedding our consultant on-site as an integral member of Pret’s team freed up their time. Plus, it deepened our understanding of the issues and meant we were on-hand to tackle challenges immediately.
Our consultant met with the Pret team, and began investigating and documenting the problems. We undertook detailed scoping, design and build work, followed by thorough testing.
The best solution was to replace the existing system with iPOS. This comprehensive product is capable of managing products, pricing, ordering, stock, and much more. Introduced to manage invoice payments, iPOS was adapted to become a full, end-to-end purchase order solution.
The biggest improvement was the creation of a stable purchase order system. The finance team now follows a streamlined process from procurement to payment. Added advantages include robust management control, and visibility of spend and budgets.
The entire project took fewer than six months from design to go-live.
The benefits
The whole project ran very smoothly. Pret achieved its goal to introduce a robust, stable procurement solution and bring all systems into line with each other.
The introduction of Connections, (an integration solution unique to Cocoon) to the USA and Hong Kong to import data from core business systems is ongoing. Plus, work is progressing to make Connections live in the UK.
Pret is actively planning an upgrade to the latest version of iPOS. It’s also looking to introduce the system internationally, starting with the US.
"We were struggling to find internal resource with the expertise and time to manage the projects. So, a member of the Cocoon consultancy team came on board to assist us. The consultant worked on site as an integral member of the finance team for the duration of the upgrade. This added real value to the project."
Simon Kerry, IT Director
