In the bustling heart of Jakarta, PT Gramedia Asri Media, Indonesia’s largest bookstore chain, is rewriting the rules of retail. With over 100 stores nationwide, Gramedia has embarked on a transformative journey, integrating Zebra Technologies’ RFID solutions to streamline operations and enhance customer service.
“Zebra's RFID solutions have improved our overall shopping experience,” said Agus Yulianto, IT Manager at Gramedia. The implementation of RFID technology has slashed inventory checking time by an impressive 50%. Customers can now enjoy self-checkout options that are 60% faster than traditional manual transactions. This shift has allowed Gramedia to reallocate a staggering 75% of staff hours from routine tasks to activities that add value for shoppers, such as personalised assistance and curated recommendations.
The RFID system provides real-time visibility into stock levels and movements, enabling Gramedia to improve stock accuracy by 50% while significantly reducing human error. With RFID-enabled exit gates also in place, shrinkage has become a concern of the past.
Zebra Technologies' sales vice president for Southeast Asia, Christanto Suryadarma, highlighted the broader implications of this technological shift. “The retail market in the Asia Pacific region is poised for significant growth, with sales expected to increase by 24% from 2023 to 2028,” he started emphasising the importance of strategic investments in advanced technologies, stating that such innovations can enhance operational efficiency and customer experience, ultimately driving profitability and fostering customer loyalty.
To achieve this groundbreaking transformation, Gramedia collaborated closely with Zebra PartnerConnect Premier Solution Partner, PT Duta Kalingga Pratama (DKP). Together, they devised a tailored solution that not only saves money but also optimises resource utilisation. The integration of Zebra’s FX7500 fixed RFID reader and AN610 low-profile RFID antenna into Gramedia’s self-checkout system is a testament to this partnership’s success.
As Gramedia continues to evolve within the fast-paced retail landscape, its commitment to innovation positions it as a leader in the digital transformation journey. With RFID technology at the helm, the bookstore chain is not just enhancing operational efficiency; it’s redefining the shopping experience for its customers, ensuring that they return for more than just books.