ADN says new Webshop Virtual Inventory increases parts availability

WebShop Virtual Inventory™, a new extension of the Automotive Distribution Network’s WebShop eCommerce solution, is a powerful Web-based supply-chain tool that seamlessly integrates the jobber’s inventory with that of his warehouse supplier and select participating manufacturers, ensuring that his service dealer customers can always order the right part they need, when they need it, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network.

“Available as an additional-cost option of Network Connect’s WebShop™, our version of WHI’s Nexpart eCommerce software, WebShop Virtual Inventory enables the service dealer to conduct a real-time stock check of not only the distributor’s inventory, but also that of other trading partners should the part not be in stock,” Lambert says. “WebShop Virtual Inventory empowers the service dealer while increasing efficiencies throughout the entire Network supply chain.”

Should the jobber not have the part in stock, his customer clicks on a link labeled, for example, “Click Here for More,” which extends the search to the warehouse or other trading partners. In the rare case that the part is still not found, the service dealer can use WebShop Virtual Inventory to further extend the search to participating manufacturers by clicking a link that enables the user to order the part directly from that manufacturer.

“WebShop Virtual Inventory makes special orders a seamless transaction, eliminating countless phone calls across the supply chain to complete the search and purchase the part,” Lambert says. “WebShop Virtual Inventory enhances the eCommerce experience for the service dealer, while preserving the supplier/customer relationships that are so important to the Network.”

For more information, contact Gary August, Network Connect director, at (518) 280-1141, or e-mail [email protected].