CenterStone Technologies, Inc., a Denver-based developer of Web software and services for managing sales orders, has successfully deployed its business-to-business sales order management software for Pearl Izumi. Pearl Izumi, a leading designer of innovative products for the running, cycling, footwear and performance apparel industries, chose CenterStone as its partner earlier this summer, and successfully implemented the software change in a matter of months. Pearl Izumi reports some 900 dealers are now using the system.

“We are kicking off 2005 selling with stronger visual appeal and more innovative technology than ever, said Jerry Edwards, president of Pearl Izumi. “Pearl Izumi will continue to lead the market in product quality, comfort and function. But Pearl Izumi’s commitment to the success of specialty retailers goes beyond great products and unsurpassed brand recognition; it includes a strong commitment to service. Pearl Izumi’s on-time service record is the top in the industry, but we have not always been easy to access or do business with. Pearl Izumi is determined to change that and www.pearlizumidealers.com, implemented via CenterStone Technologies, is an important step in that commitment. CenterStone has developed an ordering and order-management capability that makes it easier for retailers to replenish inventory and take advantage of promotion programs. This is an exciting milestone for Pearl Izumi in support of retailers’ imperatives to differentiate merchandising and strengthen customer service,” he said.

“Our dealers and sales reps have been very quick to embrace the CenterStone solution, said Barb Lavoie, inside sales manager for Pearl Izumi. “In fewer than three months, more than 900 dealers have registered for user names and passwords and we have put several million dollars of wholesale business through the CenterStone system. The rapid rate of adoption by our dealers has far exceeded our expectations.”

CenterStone’s easy-to-use system enables both dealers and sales reps to view Pearl Izumi’s electronic catalogs with current product prices. In addition, the software provides access to product availability information and worksheet order forms. Dealers and reps may also submit and track orders in real time.

Pearl Izumi joins a growing list of premium brands working with CenterStone to automate their sales order management practices for increased efficiency and ease-of use. “Pearl Izumi is already a terrific success story for CenterStone Technologies,” said Tom Detmer, president and chief executive officer of CenterStone. “We know that providing superior customer service helps give companies an edge over their competition, and our software systems help them achieve that edge quickly.”

“The level of customer service that my department is now providing to our dealers is setting a new standard,” added Lavoie. “The CenterStone solution has significantly increased the speed with which we process orders and has improved our ability to be responsive to the needs of our dealers. Our dealers are ecstatic!”