Technology: McLane Tests Smart Handheld for Independents

Called Smart Handheld for Independents (SHHi), it gives small chains the same capabilities to manage their physical inventories and order placements that large chain operations have, according to a CSP Magazine report.

The logic behind the system, which McLane targets to its independent c-store and retail customers, could apply to independent restaurants, as well. Namely, it helps accounts with fewer resources to invest in leading edge technology that automates everyday tasks and increases efficiency.

Based on feedback from single-store and small-chain customers, McLane developed the specifications around the SHHi system to address real-world requirements. SHHi gives users the ability to track order history, create orders and track upcoming distributions, all from a single device. It integrates with McLane Premium Order Management Suite, which simplifies tasks such as order procurement, item and category management, inventory turns and manufacturer compliance.

SHHi will be available for customers by early September 2009 after beta testing with a pre-set customer group is complete, McLane said in the CSP report.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Financing

Despite their complaints, customers keep flocking to Chipotle

The Bottom Line: The chain continued to be a juggernaut last quarter, with strong sales and traffic growth, despite frequent social media complaints about shrinkflation or other challenges.

Operations

Hitting resistance elsewhere, ghost kitchens and virtual concepts find a happy home in family dining

Reality Check: Old-guard chains are finding the alternative operations to be persistently effective side hustles.

Financing

The Tijuana Flats bankruptcy highlights the dangers of menu miscues

The Bottom Line: The fast-casual chain’s problems following new menu debuts in 2021 and 2022 show that adding new items isn’t always the right idea.

Trending

More from our partners