Infinity Print is the first fully web-based print procurement platform to be hosted in South Africa. The software, Equator is extensively used in Europe but now has a foot print in Africa.

Interpublic has secured the services of Mr Christian Bell, Head of Sales and Marketing, and Mr Stephen Carter, Head of operations, to run Infinity and promote the platform and the brand to corporates mainly in the Banking, Insurance, FMCG, Retail and Telecomms sector.

Initial tests completed locally demonstrate print savings of between 16% and 38%, which is very much in line with European experiences. Messrs Bell and Carter bring with them a wealth of experience in solution selling and print buying, and are very bullish regarding prospects in South Africa.

Commenting on the new offering, James Holland Group Finance Director, DRAFTFCB said: “From the inception of the idea, DRAFTFCB have sought a best in class tool to act as the platform for this new business. Following an exhaustive search across South Africa and Western Europe they decided upon a proven product, Equator, developed in the United Kingdom by Telekinesis and marketed in South Africa by Infinity. The decision was based upon Equator’s intuitive front end, allowing almost immediate deployment, its rich reporting suite, and its web-based access. Not only will DRAFTFCB be able to capture, and create efficiency, on its internal print
billings, DRAFTFCB fully anticipate being able to leverage their volumes to drive
efficiencies for clients non-agency print billings. Solutions such as Equator, with experienced buyers, supplying end-to-end print solutions is a requirement in today’s print market.”

Marketing departments, Finance Directors, procurement personnel and suppliers all benefit from the system, and with an impressive payback period, the outlook for Equator in South Africa looks strong. Print procurement often accounts for up to 3% of a company’s revenue; therefore focus on cost reduction and process improvements can lead to a dramatic increase in an organisation"s profitability.

Equator uses two of the three major pricing techniques: Request for Quotation’s, and Matrix Pricing, believing that Online Auctions merely destroy supply chain value. However, the solution ensures that value for money is maintained throughout the procurement cycle. Information captured at this stage is used to control and manage agencies, suppliers and employees. Equator also ensures accurate management information is valuable to allow for improved decision-making and focus.

The technology automates the procurement process for delivering immediate savings and in addition it delivers:
*Quick and accurate product specifications;
*Clear communication and requirements;
*Automatic email notification of issues; and
* Management and control change orders.

Equator provides a flexible workflow to ensure capabilities are matched to individual
purchasing strategies. Processes are improved making further procurement and process efficiencies. The transparency and ease of use helps eliminate maverick buying and identifies pricing trends immediately. Equator’s automated reporting capability gives greater spend control and visibility improving supplier performance and purchasing strategies.

For more information, visit www.printmanagement.co.za.