Waterstones strengthens its online sales channel with hybris

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hybris, a leading multi-channel commerce and communication software vendor, has announced that Waterstones has selected hybris Commerce to support its expanding online business. 

Part of HMV Group plc, Waterstones has more than 300 stores in high streets and shopping centres throughout the UK as well as its online sales channel. Its decision to use hybris was based on its need to replace an existing bespoke e-Commerce system with a highly scalable platform capable of supporting the companys growth plans and the anticipated increase in online purchasing from customers.

Waterstones introduced its website in 2006 since when growth has been rapid.  The website offers a catalogue of over two million books, including the fast-growing new format of eBook downloads.  The selection of hybris Commerce followed detailed analysis of the challenges currently faced by Waterstones and of its ambitious growth plans.  The analysis was supported by LBi (www.lbi.com), a digital marketing and technology agency and a partner of hybris.

David Kohn, Head of E-Commerce at Waterstones, said: Our online business is currently growing rapidly and we have demanding targets and expectations for our future growth in this channel. In order to compete effectively online, we need an e-Commerce solution that delivers all of the basics effectively, but which is also flexible and allows for our future development.  We also require a top-class Product Information Management (PIM) system to handle our large and growing catalogue to sit at the heart of our multi channel retail strategy. hybris will allow us to address all of our needs in one platform.

John Williams, Chief Technology Officer at LBi commented that: A principal reason that LBi recommended hybris for this project was because their product information management capability would give Waterstones the ability to maintain their catalogue and extend their product range as needed. hybris will also enable Waterstones to increase the ease and efficiency with which it can support the online channel with more sophisticated and personalised promotions.

Andrew Piscina, UK Country Manager for hybris, said: "Waterstones extensive product range and growing online business requires a highly scalable, functionally rich multi channel e-commerce solution based on a PIM platform, which will also enable it to take full advantage of new Web 2.0 capabilities. hybris has a proven track record in supporting multi channel retail businesses and we look forward to working with the team at Waterstones in the long term.