With an early, record-breaking spring bringing unusually warm and dry weather, garden centres have seen a significant surge in consumer activity. According to recent HTA data, April reported a 32% year-on-year increase in gardening sales by value, coupled with a 27% increase in volume. This significant uplift has placed high demand on garden centres, and retailers are facing the challenge of maintaining stock levels during this critical peak season. The Westland Live ordering platform has been expertly designed to help buyers keep pace with the unprecedented demand with exceptionally fast stock replenishment and convenient ordering.
Meeting Customer Demand When It Matters Most
Westland Live enables garden centres to place orders instantly and receive deliveries with industry-leading speed. It provides real time stock updates and order history, as well as detailed product information and imagery. The self-serve website also ensures customers have a live view of their order, from the moment it is placed right through to fulfilment.
Order Anywhere, Anytime
The platform offers unparalleled accessibility with 24/7 availability, 365 days a year. Orders can be placed directly from the shop floor from a smart phone or tablet, and stock is allocated immediately, allowing buyers to act swiftly matching replenishment without delays or unnecessary processes.
The Fastest Route from Order to Delivery
Speed is at the heart of the Westland Live experience:
- Instant orders, no matter the time or day of the week
- Accelerated delivery timelines and stock allocation to keep shelves full during peak demand
- Ability to create repeat order lists to save time
- Mobile-optimised interface for on-the-go ordering
- Real-time stock updates and order tracking
- Streamlined process designed specifically for busy retail environments
Graeme Evans, UK Supply Chain Director, at Westland Horticulture, commented: “As garden centres continue to experience high footfall, our commitment to rapid service delivery through Westland Live ensures retailers can maximise sales opportunities throughout the season. Our platform puts the ordering power directly in retailers' hands, allowing them to respond to stock requirements instantaneously and with full confidence their stock needs have been allocated immediately.”
“Furthermore, Westland Live operates as a non-transactional platform, with all invoicing and financial matters handled separately through our dedicated accounts department. This architecture means no financially sensitive data is stored within the system, providing retailers with complete peace of mind regarding data security – a crucial consideration in today's retail environment.”
Supporting Retailers
The Westland Live platform offers more than stock control, it is also an educational hub that provides expert knowledge, ensuring staff gain a deep understanding of Westland products, and how to provide advice to consumers to achieve the best results. It is also an asset to marketing teams with a variety of downloadable digital assets to support website content, social media, POS and eCRM campaigns.
If you don’t yet have a trade account with Westland Live, call +44 (0)28 8772 1080 to have your account set up, or speak to your account manger.
