Introduction

H&M are a Swedish clothing company which is recognized worldwide for its fast fashion for men, women, teenagers and children. Their mission is to make fashion accessible and enjoyable for all by providing affordable fashion. H&M focuses on sustainability and innovation in its business practices to drive change in the fashion industry.

Challenge

H&M needed a less manual process for stock control within stores. Reducing time from inbound delivery to in store stock availability and location was key. Other factors for consideration were to reduce stock loss and streamline the stock taking process.

Solution

PKS were engaged to deliver an RFID infrastructure to H&M flagship stores in Stockholm, Paris and London. Linking seamlessly into the store POS system the RFID environment was deployed and tested from cabling, bespoke mounts/brackets (designed and manufactured by PKS) and antennas. Deployment of the critical antenna systems was planned and executed from loading bay, stock location and store front to ensure full coverage over the entire floor plan.

Benefits

With merchandise arriving at the store with passive RFID labels the new system automatically validated the numbers and values (size/colour etc.) of all inbound stock. Through the integration of the POS system stock/inventory available for sale was immediately with live updates and without manual intervention. Stock was immediately traceable to within a few feet throughout the store removing the need for staff having to leave the sales floor.

Result

H&M have benefited from a live and accurate inventory resulting in improved sales and faster “turning” of stock. Customer Satisfaction scores rose; staff costs and loss rates were both reduced. Stock taking time was reduced from days to minutes.