Technology/Services

Glidewell Helps Littlefield Oil Roll Out CipherLab Solution

Mobile computers designed to streamline, automate inventory management
FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Littlefield Oil Co. has selected the CipherLab 8000 series mobile computers to improve its convenience store logistics systems. In coordination with c-store distributor Glidewell Distributing Co. Inc., the Jam Mart Convenience Store and Short Stop Truck Stop locations are using the pocket-size CipherLab 8000 mobile computers to automate inventory management processes and to eliminate the costs associated with manual data entry, stock overage and empty shelf space.

"Because CipherLab's mobile computers store all of the UPCs and Glidewell item numbers, [image-nocss] and the interface is easy for any employee to use, the item scanning and ordering process is as simple as can be," said Ronnie Threet of Littlefield Oil, who oversees the Jam Mart and Short Stop Truck Stop locations. "Before using the CipherLab mobile computers, we had to manually enter data when we received grocery items and when we sold them; having an automated system with a direct pipeline to our distributor saves us time and prevents manual mistakes. Best of all, we never have over or under-stocked product, saving us money and keeping our customers happy."

Using CipherLab's mobile computers, c-store employees can determine product availability and take immediate action on items that need to be replenished. Distributors can receive new orders and streamline the item pick process for faster delivery. CipherLab and reseller Scan Rite Solutions teamed up to offer the customized solution.

"Since adopting CipherLab's technology, we've dramatically reduced the back and forth in the ordering process that generally takes up time and resources with a typical convenience store-distributor relationship," said Nick Glidewell, director of sales at Glidewell Distributing.

The CipherLab 8000 Mobile Computer delivers mobility in a ruggedized, ergonomic design, offering speedy barcode scanning and data entry via multiple wireless communication options. With a pocket-size form factor that exceeds industry drop standards, the CipherLab 8000 offers 100 continuous hours of battery life, long-range radio communication of up to 1148 feet, and a backlit LCD screen for low-light areas and the lowest possible power consumption. Its interface minimizes training requirements and supports a variety of software solutions.

"By providing 'plug and play' anywhere mobile computers that can interface with current software programs, convenience stores realize an instant ROI," said CipherLab vice president of technology Al Crawford. "CipherLab's mobile computers are a perfect fit for convenience stores where simplicity, functionality and durability is key."

CipherLab, with North American offices in Plano, Texas, is a global leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of AIDC (automatic identification and data capture/collection) products and systems. The company's mobile computers and scanners are integrated into the networks of government and logistics, grocery, manufacturing, retail, distribution, agricultural and healthcare companies. CipherLab Solutions Certified resellers and integrators further extend the company's expertise, particularly within the small- to medium-size business market.

Fort Smith, Ark.-based wholesaler Littlefield Oil spans parts of four states with 12 different loading racks to pull product from. It services all types of fuel users, commercial, construction, farm, drilling rigs, convenience stores, truckstops and more. It offers a variety of branded options such as Conoco, Phillips, Valero, Shamrock, Shell and CITGO, as well as unbranded options.

Glidewell Distributing is also based in Fort Smith.

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