Local group sees investment return

Changing the computer system for a network of ten pharmacies was always going to be a big decision for Shamir Patel. His thorough approach however has paid dividends.

"The advent of EPS really made me look hard at my existing, old system" says the co-owner of Lancashire's North Meols pharmacy business. "But any new system is a major investment and I had tough questions to ask."

"I'd already benchmarked various options when the Numark and Phoenix team took me to see a member operating Numark Assist. He was able to give me a completely honest view and, over all my assessment criteria, it came out top."

Numark's team, headed by Commercial IT manager Andy Charlesworth, responded by making sure their 'techies' were in and out really quickly to complete the installation. Disruption to the running of Shamir's ten branches was minimized and he was able to concentrate his own energies on using the new system to increase profits. He explains:

"I worked hard on customising the system to specify, not the best prices for me, but the best returns. Numark built my spreadsheet into the system, so I know when managers are in my stores they are dispensing my choice of product, not theirs."

Implementing phase one EPS was a key part of the new system and itís now yielding the obvious practice efficiency benefits, on top of the increased margins resulting from Shamir's diligence.

Andy Charlesworth thinks Assist is just plain good all round.

"Whilst being very aware of the new contract, we've also held forums regionally to sound out members as to their overall needs. The idea was for Numark Assist to offer as many benefits as possible, not just EPS."