Step by step to perfection: Wortmann's ERP upgrade in the footwear industry with BE-terna Fashion

"It was very important for us to choose a reliable partner with standardized processes and structures. BE-terna provides us with high expertise and very short response times for support inquiries." 

Step-by-step implementation

Wortmann opted for a step-by-step implementation process to minimize the workload on employees and ensure that the new system could be put into productive use as quickly as possible. The first step involved migrating all functions from the previous system while addressing clearly identified weaknesses. Additional innovations were introduced selectively at specific points. The decision to divide the project into phases proved to be advantageous. Patrick Weigang explains:

"The step-by-step rollout allowed us to gain valuable experience with the new system. This helps us understand which requirements are truly necessary and which are already covered by existing standard processes."

Customization where necessary, standardization where possible

"Although we have many individual processes, we aim to align with a standard as much as possible to keep the implementation effort low," explains Patrick Weigang. Finding the right balance is particularly important to ensure that the new ERP system can be implemented efficiently while still being tailored to the specific needs of the company. 

Oliver Stolle, Senior Project Manager at BE-terna, emphasizes the importance of this balance: "It was crucial that we focused on replacing the old system without adding unnecessary extras. The core processes had to function, and the business needed to remain operational. The Wortmann Fashion Retail team executed this focus very well."

Integration of the central order management system

One key customization that deviated from the standard was the interface with the central order management system. This system consolidates all online orders, whether they come from the company’s own webshops or platforms like Amazon and Zalando. Thanks to the integration with Microsoft Dynamics 365, these processes now run faster and more accurately, resulting in better data synchronization.

Increasing internal expertise and flexibility

A key advantage of the new solution is its ability to accommodate individual requirements and allow for in-house adjustments. Wortmann now has a software developer trained by BE-terna. With this internal expertise, the company can respond more flexibly to demands and quickly resolve software issues. In the future, this area will be further expanded to enhance flexibility even more.

Improved user acceptance

The introduction of BE-terna’s new software solution has significantly increased user acceptance and the number of active users. The modern user interface, combined with the integration of additional processes into the software, has led to many employees now working with BE-Fashion, whereas they previously relied on parallel solutions like Excel.

Optimized workflow in accounting

Previously, invoice data was often recorded using separate tools and systems, leading to reduced transparency and potential errors. Today, all invoices—whether they come via EDI, PDF, or other formats—are processed through the central system and transferred to the accounting system via an interface. This has resulted in a smoother and more accurate workflow for invoice verification.

Improved performance in the POS system

Another key aspect of the ERP transition at Wortmann Fashion Retail was the introduction of the BE-terna Point of Sale (POS) system in their stores. Currently, 32 stores are equipped with a total of 43 POS systems. Patrick Weigang explains: 

“We used to have major performance issues. Tasks like scanning an item could take up to 30 seconds in extreme cases, which is unacceptable on a busy Saturday in the store. Thanks to the new solution, we've resolved these performance problems and significantly sped up the processes.”

Future-proof expansions and customizations

The implementation of the new ERP system lays the foundation for future adjustments and expansions. Wortmann plans to further optimize the reorder process. Currently, items are reordered manually based on sales figures and stock evaluations. In the future, an automated system will trigger reorders based on predefined stock levels and sales curves. Additionally, the integration of real-time supplier inventory will further enhance the reorder process. Particularly in the NOS (Never Out of Stock) segment, reorders will be automated moving forward. These projects demonstrate how Wortmann can use the new ERP solution to respond flexibly to market demands and streamline processes.

A strategic step for long-term success

Wortmann Fashion Retail GmbH & Co. KG’s decision to implement the BE-terna solution was a strategic move that has proven highly successful. The new IT solution enables the company to respond flexibly to market demands and position itself for the future. The collaboration with BE-terna, marked by professionalism and industry expertise, along with the dedicated efforts of the entire WFR team, were key factors in the project’s success. Wortmann Fashion Retail is now well-equipped to streamline its business processes and continue thriving in the retail market.