Autumn 2006

Consumer electrics and electronics giant Philips is creating a set of multi-channel online shops where its own staff will be able to buy goods over the internet. It has selected Canadian e-commerce specialist Truition to provide the underlying technology, and is using DHL to handle fulfilment.

The technology is being built round Truition's Commerce Management System, which has been customised for this specific implementation. Six online shops are involved, and will serve different European countries, many with multiple pricing, language and currency requirements. In all they will service approximately 100,000 Philips employees, offering them access to electronic merchandise.

There is tight integration with the DHL operation. DHL is a long-time business partner of Philips, and has taken responsibility for the central fulfilment and logistics services for all merchandise sold online. Inventory across all Philips' online shops is being managed centrally via Truition's e-commerce platform.

Truition describes its Commerce Management System as an on-demand, enterprise-class platform offering online retailers flexibility, customisation and control, whether it is implemented as a licensed or in-house solution. Furthermore, says the company, it does this without requiring the high investment in software, hardware or IT resources.