Univar optimizes chemical distribution with IBS Software

IBS has signed an agreement with Univar Switzerland for an ERP software solution optimized for the chemical distribution business. The solution is planned to be used as a template for further installations in other European countries during 2006 and onwards. The initial order value amounts to EUR 0.5 m and includes software, services and hardware.

Univar N.V. is one of the world’s leading independent distributors of industrial chemicals and providers of related speciality services, operating throughout both North America and Europe. Univar currently uses IBS software in Switzerland, Germany, The Netherlands, UK and the Nordic countries. Switzerland will be the first country unit of Univar installing this customised IBS software solution for chemical distribution. The solution covers software modules for demand-driven distribution and manufacturing, inventory, financial control and integration. It includes specific functionality for dangerous goods handling and other legislative requirements in the chemical distribution industry. The installation for Univar Switzerland, for about 50 users, is scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2006. This ERP solution is planned to be used as a template for upgrading other IBS software installations in Europe, as well as for new installations in selected Univar operations in Europe during 2006 and onwards. “In an increasingly complex business environment you need to keep a sustainable competitive advantage by constantly improving the cost-effectiveness of the operation – a vital success factor in achieving this is to use business information systems supporting your business model,” says Markus Hug, Managing Director, Univar AG. “The agreement with Univar Switzerland is clearly of strategic relevance to IBS and pathbreaking for further and extended partnerships with other Univar subsidiaries. It was IBS’ already long-lasting partnership with Univar Switzerland, together with the expertise and ability to offer total solutions for international distribution companies, which finally turned the balance. Working with a challenging partner in one of our core industries enables us to further extend our specific expert knowledge,” says Lukas Hostettler, MD of IBS Switzerland. For further information, please contact: John Womack, Director of Communications, IBS AB Tel.: +46 (0)8 627 24 99 Mobile: +46 (0)70 678 24 99 Email: john.womack@ibs.net Lukas Hostettler, Managing Director IBS Switzerland AG +41 31 980 09 00 Email: lukas.hostettler@ibs.ch Univar N.V. is one of the world’s leading independent distributors of industrial chemicals and providers of related speciality services, operating throughout both North America and Europe. Univar operates an extensive network of distribution centres spread across the United States, Canada and 14 European countries.