Microsoft BSRMS Helps Keep Bicycle Retailers on Track

LAS VEGAS, US (October 7) - Microsoft’s Business Solutions Retail Management System is proving itself a serious contender in the race to offer small and lower-midmarket retailers of bicycles and associated merchandise affordable, easy-to-use, point-of-sale technology. To demonstrate how specialized bike retailers can benefit from a POS solution and increase their business success, Microsoft Business Solutions is exhibiting at the Interbike International Bicycle Expo, the annual US trade show for bicycle retailers, this week in Las Vegas. The system is a popular choice among bicycle retailers. Cycle Loft is one example. A full-service bicycle retailer that offers a variety of bicycles, related accessories, triathlon gear and clothing, Cycle Loft's Fit Lab customizes stock and made-to-measure, custom- fit bicycles for each rider. Cycle Loft has 17,000 square feet of space and sells more than 4,000 bicycles per year that range from $200 (U.S.) to more than $6,000. As Cycle Loft's customer base grew, the inventory ballooned unprofitably. With the Microsoft system, Cycle Loft has cut its inventory by 50%, its sales have risen by 33%. The ability to see margins at the point of sale regularly helps Cycle Loft close sales. It is easy to export POS data