LIVERMORE, Calif. – Epicor Software Corp. has announced that 4M Parts Warehouse, a leading distributor of replacement automotive parts and related products, will implement the Epicor Vision business management solution and Epicor LaserCat 3 electronic catalog interface at its distribution center and five company-owned stores. The Epicor Vision software will also be offered as a hosted solution for the network of independent jobbers served by 4M.
Based in Cleburne, Texas, 4M is an Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance shareholder serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The company, which has plans to expand beyond its current 15 locations, was founded by Otis Martindale in the 1960s and has been an Epicor customer for more than 30 years. The Vision solution will replace the company’s Epicor Prism system, which has been in place since 1995.
“Epicor has been an important partner in our growth since 1980, and they provided exceptional support of our Prism system. The Epicor Vision software is the right next step for us as we expand our business and continue to drive efficiency and customer loyalty,” said 4M President and CEO Lanny Martindale. “Vision is becoming more powerful with each new release, and we’re confident it will serve us well for many, many years.”
According to Epicor, the Vision system features an innovative, highly flexible and scalable SQL relational database that runs in a Microsoft Windows or IBM AIX environment. The solution is designed for distributors who want to control costs through efficient inventory management and differentiate their businesses through superior customer service, Epicor says. It is engineered to offer world-class CRM tools, a centralized database, integrated accounting, offline point-of-sale capabilities and other features that help drive sales and operational efficiency. Vision is designed to operate in conjunction with leading warehouse management systems.
The company’s adoption of the leading edge Epicor LaserCat 3 eCatalog interface will help accelerate product lookups, reduce lost sales and enable counter professionals to provide increased value to their customers, according to 4M Vice President Brian Martindale. “LaserCat 3 is the gold standard in catalog technology. It allows us to provide a superior customer experience at the counter and over the phone.”
“4M’s investment in these two proven solutions will help enhance their competitive advantage through more effective and profitable inventory practices and increased customer value,” said Paul Salsgiver, executive vice president and general manager, retail software for Epicor.
