Located just outside of Chicago, Zepole Restaurant Supply started in 1982 as a one-person operation and has since grown to become a destination for foodservice operators throughout the entire Chicagoland area. Looking to further increase its reach both locally and online, Zepole implemented DDI System’s Inform ERP Software and Inform eCommerce products. Finding that it blended seamlessly with its AutoQuotes software, Zepole has already seen significant business improvements and sales growth since the implementation, and feels well positioned for future growth.
“Not all systems are built ‘out of the box’ to accommodate foodservice equipment distributors. No customization was required; DDI’s Inform ERP already had what we needed.”
When Zepole Restaurant Supply first opened its doors, it supplied disposable paper products to local restaurants. Now it provides everything from heavy equipment to small wares, disposables, janitorial and chemical supplies to foodservice operations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. In addition, the business touts an 8,000 square foot cash-and-carry store, which provides commercial-grade kitchen tools to both restaurant operators and consumers.
Reputation & Technology Win
After using the same software solution for almost two decades, Gary Thiakos, owner of Zepole Supply, knew he needed to make a change if he wanted his business to continue growing in an increasingly technology and data-driven marketplace. He wanted a solution that would provide him with a finer level of detail about the business, while also providing intelligent and intuitive forecasting. Seamless integration with its AutoQuotes technology was another required feature.
“We had been with Sage since 2002. But, there were limitations we could not overcome as we developed our path forward for where we needed Zepole to go in the future,” sais Thiakos. “It was time to take the next step to evolve our Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software.”
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