Nisa introduces mobile app for partners

The application is designed as a simple, no cost tool that will help retailers in a wide range of activities including ordering, price checks and delivery tracking. It also directs retailers via intelligent push notifications to specific products, web deals, and news updates relevant to their business.

The app has a scanning function enabling the creation of orders and searching for products using the built-in camera on a mobile device, avoiding the need for retailers to purchase additional dedicated hand-held scanning equipment which can be costly.

In addition, several search tools have been added to the new app, which enables filtering based on commodities, price, and desired margins.

A utilities function also enables retailers to quickly calculate any combination of margin, cost or sell to help maximise profits in store.

Peter Walker, head of IT at Nisa, said: “The tool has been created to provide a simple interface for regular partner activities via an easy to use app. Retailers can quickly create full orders, order web deals in real-time, view receipts and track deliveries physically as they are en route to store.”

He added: “One of the new features we’re most proud of is the ability to target and update Nisa partners via intelligent push notifications to automatically direct them to specific products, promotions, web deals and news updates via a single click. Working in conjunction with a head office-based targeting system, this allows notifications to be sent to specific partner groupings and demographics providing immediate awareness of new offers which can then be ordered directly from the app by a simple click on the notification.

“The ability to integrate to delivery tracking is another great benefit, reducing the need for calls to the Nisa helpdesk for ETAs on deliveries in transit.”

The app is available now in Apple and Google Play stores and can be accessed by retailers simply logging in with their existing Nisa OCS details.

The launch comes following a trial period involving a number of Nisa partners. Chris Taylor, of Taylors of Tickhill, said: “This is the most useful tool Nisa IT department has created to date. All the information required to manage the stock for your store is in the palm of your hand. I find the product catalogue with pictures of the products particularly useful when trying to re-merchandise areas of the store and there is no more need to go back and forth from the office PC.

“The delivery tracker is also very useful, with live information on where my delivery is. I really do think all stores should download and use this tool. Each will find that it delivers in all areas needed.”

Mohammad Sarwar in Peterborough, another retailer involved in the pilot, added: “It is very good. I have found it really useful that it allows me to do tasks from home rather than in the shop.”