FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KWIKSET® REFORMS DOOR HARDWARE DISTRIBUTION FOR BUILDERS
SmartSupply™ Program and Exclusive SmartKey™ Lock Offers Improved Efficiency and
Increased Functionality on Jobsites
Lake Forest,
Calif. –
February 13, 2008
– Kwikset®, a leader in the home improvement industry, announces the new SmartSupply
builder purchasing program. With the help of technology developed by industry-leading
solutions provider Hyphen Solutions, Ltd., Kwikset has developed a program to streamline
the hardware distribution process, increase builder profit margins and improve the
efficiency of distribution partners.
By limiting distribution channels and simplifying the purchasing process, the SmartSupply
program offers builders an approved list of Kwikset “Platinum” partners who will
have access to greater purchasing efficiency, on-site delivery, installation services
and integrated computer inventory systems. Utilizing Hyphen’s SupplyPro® scheduling
and collaboration tool, and a jointly developed interface with Kwikset, Platinum
partners will enable builders to order from the field, process orders in real time,
track invoices online, and access a detailed audit trail. Kwikset will have visibility
into the builders’ schedules to forecast product demand in advance of the Platinum
partners’ orders to streamline inventories and reduce out-of-stocks. The Hyphen
Solutions system will also allow the distributor, builder and Kwikset to access
information on usage history and future demand. This will enable the value chain
to operate at higher levels of efficiency than it does today. When participating
in the program, builders can also look forward to flat pricing, decreased inventory
errors, more control over the supply chain process and other operational efficiencies.
“Because the hardware marketplace is a very crowded arena, we wanted to develop
a way to differentiate Kwikset from its competitors in the industry. We have spent
time listening to the needs of the home builder and we believe SmartSupply is a
proactive strategy to address those needs.” said Bobby Bloom, Vice President of
Builder Channel Sales at Black & Decker HHI Group. “Builders who utilize the SmartSupply
program will be able to keep inventory at a minimum, track orders and billing, and
complete all hardware transactions while on the job.”
Another vehicle of the SmartSupply program is the new SmartKey lock, which is exclusively
available in the Kwikset Signature Series line. With the patented sidelocking bar
technology to replace the traditional pin and tumbler design, SmartKey locks can
be easily re-keyed in 30 seconds or less, and eliminate many of the hassles and
complexities associated with re-keying. The additional security of SmartKey can
be used as a significant feature when selling new homes.
When subscribing to the SmartSupply program, builders can choose from a variety
of wholesale and distribution packages that includes inventory upgrades, quick shipments,
small dealer support, jobsite delivery, installation services, outside sales forces
and service warranties. Through the unique benefits of the SmartSupply program and
innovative SmartKey technology, Kwikset is changing the traditional look of the
hardware supply industry for builders of all sizes.
Hyphen Solutions, Ltd. supplies 17,000 users with an industry-leading supply chain
management, collaboration, and scheduling solution for America’s most respected
homebuilders and their business partners. Hyphen’s unique technology delivers greater
operational control, better communication and increase productivity for both homebuilders
and their building partners who use the BuildPro and SupplyPro applications. For
more information, please visit
www.hyphensolutions.com.
For more than 60 years, Kwikset, manufacturer of America’s most trusted name in
security, has provided beauty, security and peace of mind for millions of families.
For additional information on Kwikset products, visit
www.kwikset.com, or call 1-800-327- LOCK.
Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement (BDHHI) Group is a division of Black
& Decker, the world’s largest producer of power tools, power tool accessories and
security hardware. Today, the BDHHI Group includes some of the most recognizable
hardware and home improvement brands including Kwikset®, Weiser Lock®, Baldwin®,
Price Pfister® and K2™ Commercial Hardware by Black & Decker.
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