Well-connected consumerfed looks to serve better

KOCHI:  Kerala State Co-operatives Consumers’ Federation (Consumerfed) is riding high after becoming a full-fledged tech-savvy organisation. Though the attempts at total computerisation had commenced in 2007, it was completed only in 2012.Consumerfed’s MD Riji Nair said that the online facilities have given them a fresh impetus in keeping the organisation ahead of the pack.The seven regional offices directly control the Triveni super markets, Neethi medical stores, Neethi distribution centres and the beverage outlets located across the states. Except the Neethi medical stores and beverage outlets, all the other showrooms are connected to the regional offices and the Consumerfed headquarters.The BEVCO shops are directly linked to the head office, while a network connects the Neethi Medical store and the six medical units in the state, which are again connected to the head office at Kochi. “As all data is available at the headquarters, we can monitor each transaction happening across the state,” said Riji Nair.“The latest facility helps us prevent any instances of malpractice. It gives little room for fraudulent practices as the higher authorities get a day-to-day report on all the dealings,” he added.The officials also said that the network has enabled them to meet the profit target. “Since the system ensures efficient stock monitoring, we are able to divert excess supply of goods to those outlets which face shortage of goods,” said Joy Thomas, president, Consumerfed. According to him, this system ensures uniform prices at all distribution centres as well. Consumerfed has spent an amount of `16 crore for the total computerisation of the outlets. “The organisation did not seek any external help in this regard. The amount was set aside from our yearly profit. Our IT section has also designed a special software to cater to our needs,” he added.