Starrett
Introduction
The L.S. Starrett Company, founded in 1880, manufactures more than 5,000 variations of Precision Tools, Gages, Measuring Instruments and Saw Blades for industrial, professional and consumer markets worldwide. Starrett, a leader who has set the standard for fine precision tools in industry for over 140 years, has rightfully earned the title, "World's Greatest toolmakers".
The Challenge
Starrett faced several challenges with their printed literature operations:
- Inefficient fulfillment processes, leading to slow service and high costs.
- Difficulty providing access to sales representatives, distributors, and educators for ordering materials.
- Frequent inventory reconciliation issues and limited options for expanding capabilities.
The Solution
By partnering with Midstates Fulfillment Starett was able to address:
- Centralized Fulfillment: Literature was consolidated into a single, centrally located facility to improve efficiency.
- Custom Storefront: Midstates developed a custom web interface allowing restricted access by user type, streamlining the ordering process for sales reps, distributors, and educators.
- Expanded Capabilities: Added options for charging for literature, managing promotional items, bulk mailing, and promotional packaging.
Outcomes & Results
- Streamlined Processes: A user-friendly system improved access and ordering for all stakeholders.
- Improved Efficiency: Spot-on inventory levels eliminated reconciliation issues, and centralized fulfillment reduced freight costs.
- Enhanced Service: Faster order processing and expanded material options improved client satisfaction.
By partnering with Midstates, Starrett not only optimized their literature fulfillment operations but also added capabilities that position them for continued success in meeting their clients’ needs.
"While printed literature might seem old-fashioned in many market segments, our clients overwhelmingly prefer printed media over digital. For years, we struggled with inefficiencies in stocking, handling, and shipping literature across North America. Whether using internal resources or third-party providers, our service was slow, and our costs were high.
We needed to improve efficiencies, add capabilities, and reduce overall costs without sacrificing service to our clients. Partnering with Midstates provided the solution we were searching for.
All of our literature is now stored in a single, centrally located facility optimized to serve the majority of our clients. Midstates also designed a custom web interface tailored to our needs, making it easy for our team and clients to access materials. Since the change, we’ve eliminated monthly reconciliation issues with spot-on inventory accuracy, reduced freight costs, and improved service rates.
Additionally, Midstates enabled us to expand our offerings, including the ability to charge for literature, handle promotional items, and provide bulk mailing, promotional packaging, and more. The partnership has transformed how we manage and deliver our materials, and we couldn’t be more pleased."