Salepoint is at the cutting edge of technology and has recently invested over £30,000 in a new IT system to improve the efficiency in daily operations.

The recently updated IT structure features six new, dedicated workstations for 3D CAD design. Concurrent with the programme was an upgrading to the latest version of CAD software applications to ensure that the fastest and most efficient tools are available to operatives.

Salepoint has also upgraded the accounting and stock control system and implemented a SAP package throughout the company. This installation involved intensive bespoke changes to the new software accounting and stock control requirements and enables Salepoint to streamline its operations which range from directly supplying clients from stock to managing larger projects where more project management is involved.

When Frances Grant took on Adipost in Whitton High Street near Twickenham she took on quite a challenge as the DIY shop had already closed down in 2002. The new Adipost had to re-open with a difference and that meant somehow looking to offer the local community something more. This was mainly her endeavour as husband Ross has his own business interests in the avionics industry. Changes included offering giftware, a ceramics painting studio, new shopfittings from Salepoint and increasing the service level for the DIY such that the shop is now something of a focal point in the community

Customers can seek advice from the staff who are in most cases semi retired, live locally and have a wealth of DIY knowledge. The shop also provides a referral service for customers recommending local builders, plumbers and handymen. This additional service provides a great deal of added security for many of the older customers.

Frances also established a Ceramic Painting Studio to the rear of the shop. Parties of up to 22 of all ages dabble, painting a selection of ceramics for hours. This is particularly popular at Christmas where kids can paint Christmas Tree ornaments and Christmas gifts for parents and grand parents alike. Professional help is available onsite and the completed items are fired at over 1,000 degrees C in the studio’s own kiln. The studio encourages families to visit the local shop; this reinforces the community role played by the business.

Yes it is healthy to diversify but interestingly it still all revolves around a long-established traditional hardware shop, albeit one which has been modernised to reflect new community based shopping.