“We first implemented Podfather, in a single branch, back in 2023,” commented Chris Heading, Regional Director at 3Line Electrical Wholesale. “Even from day one, we noticed a significant reduction in the number of queries relating to deliveries that we were getting, and this pattern has continued. With real-time tracking and the option to share and update ETA notifications, everyone can see where a vehicle is, where it is going, and when it’s expected to arrive. The ability to digitally capture evidence of each delivery is further improving our customer experience as we can share this information with the customer in case of query.”
Established in 2009, 3Line is an independent electrical wholesaler company supplying electrical contractors, installers, facilities managers, commercial/industrial users and the general public with a wide range of electrical supplies. 3Line Electrical is now a £32 million business with locations across central and southern England. With a network of 15 branches, an increase of 15% over two years, 3Line makes up to 3,000 deliveries a day, covering the whole of the UK, using its fleet of long and short wheelbase vans.
“Customer service is at the forefront of everything we do, and our local teams genuinely want to help. At each branch we offer a comprehensive stock range, welcoming trade counter and a free delivery service, and we work closely with customers to ensure we are delivering not only the products they need but the experience they expect.”
“In fact, the driving force behind Podfather was our busiest branch Nottingham, and specifically our largest customer who required a POD to accompany every invoice. With thousands of sheets of paper a month, all requiring scanning, printing, and collating, this was not only an enormous admin resource, but it was also impacting on the service we were providing. By proving Podfather in the most demanding environment we now have a solution that delivers across our entire operation.
“Podfather provides efficiency gains at every touch point, from vehicle inspections to real-time tracking, immediate and comprehensive delivery notifications and improved route planning and vehicle utilisation.”
Moving forward, 3Line is continually working to build on the financial and operational improvements already realised using Podfather’s features and functionality. It hopes to automatically integrate data from Podfather within its reporting and management function, further reenforcing its commitment to customer service and informing future operational decision making for sustained growth.
