Clarks unifies omnichannel commerce with mobile POS platform
A specialty footwear brand has replaced its legacy technology stack with cloud-based omnichannel infrastructure, centered in its stores.
When it realized many of its systems were approaching end of life, Clarks underwent a company-wide digital transformation based on microservices, API-first, cloud-native and headless (MACH) principles and a strategic shift to a cloud-based environment from on-premises technology operations.
Clarks determined its outdated in-store POS systems, some of which were more than 20 years old, posed a key challenge to modernizing its technology infrastructure. The retailer decided to deploy the NewStore MACH-certified Unified Commerce Platform, based on mobile POS technology, to modernize its omnichannel operations.
Working with systems integrator AbsoluteLab, Clarks seamlessly connected the NewStore platform with its existing omnichannel enterprise systems. Through this partnership, Clarks has been able to leverage the omnichannel capabilities of the platform, which include store fulfillment, mixed cart processing, endless aisle, buy online pickup in-store (BOPIS) and buy online return in-store (BORIS).
According to Clarks, as a result it has been able to offer a unified and efficient shopping experience across all channels while utilizing the NewStore platform as the "central source of truth" for its retail operations.
In addition, the enhanced mobility provided by the mobile POS enables associates at all Clarks stores around the world to engage with customers more effectively while improving the speed and efficiency of in-store operations.
"NewStore has been a key partner in our digital transformation journey," said Simon Clarke, CIO, Clarks. "The flexibility and interoperability of the platform were major selling points for us because we needed a solution that could modernize our technology and seamlessly connect our systems across all channels. This upgrade has allowed us to provide a consistent and high-quality shopping experience at every touchpoint, and we’re already seeing the added value it brings to our operations."
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Founded in Somerset, England, in 1825, Clarks operates as a global business, with a presence in over 100 markets through retail, wholesale, franchise, and online channels. The brand owns and operates 512 full-price and outlet stores across Europe, North America, and the U.K.
