Craftsmanship meets high-tech

Mühlenbeck is known far beyond the region, and many customers come from far and wide to shop here. They are attracted by the fresh, artisanal meat and sausage products, many of which are regional specialties. One focus is on beef and pork from free-range systems. The high quality of the products is to be made tangible through an attractive presentation. Processes are to be simplified and shopping convenience increased. Mühlenbeck therefore plans to implement a modern store concept with a high degree of digitalization in the new sales area and the adjacent preparation room. 

Fighting queues with innovation  

Due to the often heavy customer traffic, Mühlenbeck is looking for solutions that reduce waiting times and relieve the team at the eleven meter wide service counter and in the preparation room through networked processes.  

Holistic expertise 

The project is comprehensive and everything must be done to ensure that the investment pays off quickly. A good price-performance ratio from the technology provider is therefore a prerequisite. Mühlenbeck has been working with Bizerba solutions for decades and appreciates the company's customer service. This is why Bizerba was awarded the contract to supply a complete solution comprising hardware, software and services, with all services from joint planning to implementation and maintenance. 

Lean processes, flexible payment options 

Mühlenbeck presents the new store concept and digitalization plans to Bizerba. Order processes, including order preparation, are to be automated. A mobile app recommended by the Butchers Association will be used for customer orders. Flexible payment options, including vouchers, are also desired. Processes should be centralized and connected to the back office. 

The butcher shop is future-proof. The order management system centralizes all orders, regardless of whether they are placed via the app, by telephone or in person. The individual orders can be called up directly on the Bizerba scales in the preparation room. The goods are cut, weighed and labeled using Bizerba technology and are ready for collection at the requested time. The status of the individual orders can be viewed at any time. 

Work can be better scheduled 

The increased focus on pre-orders means that work in the preparation room can be scheduled for times when the store is less busy. When foot traffic is high, the team has more time to spend with customers - and they benefit from shorter wait times.  

Team welcomes reduced workload 

The Mühlenbeck team appreciates the new way of working. After training and a short familiarization phase, the employees feel a noticeable relief from the paperless processes. "Operation is intuitive and the team finds the new processes a welcome relief," says Mehring. 

More time for customer service 

The increased efficiency now leaves more time for other activities, such as customer service. The fact that the RetailApp MyOrder has been further optimized and customized has also met with a positive response. One example: Once an order has been entered into the system, it can be edited at a later date, which is useful if, for example, an ordered product is not in stock. 

Quick and sustainable success 

In the first year alone, Mühlenbeck achieved a 30 percent increase in out-of-home sales. Co-Managing Director Stefanie Mehring: "The new store has become a focal point in the village and a place to enjoy food that attracts many people. This even has a positive effect on other retailers in our neighborhood. The new ordering service and the possibility to buy gift certificates have been very well received by our customers.

Conclusion: A consistent willingness to innovate ensures smooth business operations, even in the handicraft sector.