Fors AG, founded in 1979, is the leading specialist for refrigeration, cooking and washing in Switzerland. With around 100 employees and the largest product range on the market, the company supplies over 4,000 specialist partners.
However, with increasing digitalization, the pressure to manage the extensive product data efficiently grew. The existing ERP system was reaching its limits and it became necessary to improve data quality and optimize internal processes. A future-proof solution was required.
From problem to solution: Fors AG's digital journey
When Fors AG realized that the previous product data management system was no longer sufficient, an exciting journey began for the company - a journey that went far beyond the mere introduction of a new system. It was the beginning of a comprehensive digital transformation.
Analysis and planning: a look behind the scenes
The go-ahead was given in 2018, and a detailed analysis of the existing systems was initially carried out together with the experts from Raptus AG. The challenges were complex: how can we optimize the data flows? Which interfaces need to be created? It was like putting together a jigsaw puzzle where every piece had to fit exactly. The findings from this phase laid the foundation for a customized PIM strategy that was precisely tailored to Fors' needs.
From the selection of the PIM system to successful data migration
Once the strategy was in place, it was time to select the right PIM system. But that was just the beginning. The system had to be implemented in a way that did not disrupt ongoing operations at Fors - a challenge that Raptoren mastered in close cooperation with the IT and specialist departments at Fors. The employees were involved right from the start to ensure that they not only accepted the new solution, but also actively helped to shape it.
Another milestone was the migration of the existing product data to the new PIM system. This was not simply a data transfer, but an in-depth restructuring. Old data structures were revised to ensure the consistency and quality of the information. This is where the true strength of the PIM system became apparent: it enabled automated data quality checks, which helped to identify and rectify errors at an early stage.
Seamless integration: the interaction of systems
One of the biggest challenges was integrating the new PIM system into Fors' existing ERP landscape. But this is precisely where our Raptors demonstrated their full expertise. Automated data flows were created that made it possible to synchronize information between different systems in real time. Whether e-commerce platforms, digital price tags in the showrooms or external marketplaces - the PIM system ensured that the right data was in the right place at the right time.
One team, one goal: training and change management
But what use is the best technology if it is not used properly? That's why we attached great importance to comprehensive training programs. Fors employees were not only taught how to use the new system, but also how to make their daily work processes more efficient. Our raptors accompanied Fors throughout the entire changeover phase and beyond to ensure that the new workflows functioned smoothly.
Continuous optimization: A journey without end
Even after the successful introduction of the PIM system, the journey was not over. Together with Fors, Raptus is continuously working on optimizing the system. New features are introduced, existing functions are expanded and the system is gradually extended to other areas of the company. This allows Fors to remain flexible and react quickly to new market requirements.
The result: a quantum leap in efficiency
The introduction of the PIM system at Fors AG has proven to be a real game changer. The workload of the employees has been noticeably reduced, while the quality of the product data has been significantly improved at the same time.
Today, product data is used for various channels. These include, for example
- B2B e-commerce platform
- B2C product presentation (online)
- Digital price tags in exhibitions
- External marketplaces (Galaxus, Brack, etc.)
- As a data source for resellers and their e-commerce systems
- As a data source for specialist partners and their ERP systems
- Generation of print media (data sheets, labels, etc.)
The new system enables Fors AG to react more agilely to market requirements and distribute product information efficiently across various channels. This success story underlines the transformative power of well-implemented digital solutions in B2B retail.
