Texas Peak Group, a wholesale and retail powerhouse managing multiple brands, including Brooks Running, has seen remarkable transformation through its partnership with Apparel²¹. Martin Kamener, who plays a pivotal role in managing Texas Peak’s wholesale operations, shared insights into their journey of operational improvement, highlighting how Apparel²¹ became the beating heart of their business.
Background: Texas Peak and Brooks Running
Texas Peak Group operates as a distributor and retailer, specialising in delivering high-quality products like Brooks Running shoes to their extensive network of resellers and customers. Brooks Running, a global leader in running gear, is known for its dedication to creating innovative, high-performance footwear and apparel. This commitment to quality resonates with Texas Peak’s focus on efficiency, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
When Martin joined Texas Peak, the company had already implemented Apparel²¹, a leading ERP solution tailored for the fashion industry. Over the years, he has worked closely with the system, evolving its use to meet the demands of modern retail and wholesale.
The Challenge: Friction and Inefficiencies
Years ago, Texas Peak faced significant operational challenges. Customer service processes relied heavily on manual methods—receiving orders via email or fax, retyping them into the system, and dealing with inevitable errors. "There was always confusion and mistakes," Martin recalled. The lack of streamlined processes created unnecessary friction and inefficiencies, slowing operations and impacting customers and staff.
The Solution: Maximizing the Potential of Apparel21
Martin set out to transform Texas Peak’s operations by fully leveraging Apparel²¹’s capabilities. "We’ve worked very closely with Apparel²¹ over the years," he explained. This included better utilisation of existing tools and tailoring configurations to suit Texas Peak’s unique business needs.
The introduction of SalesNet, Apparel²¹ ’s wholesale portal, was a game-changer. "SalesNet meant customers can get on and order whenever they like and see all their information," Martin said. This one-touch order experience eliminated countless unnecessary emails and escalations. “The volume of unnecessary questions has plummeted,” he added, emphasising the time saved for both customer service teams and customers.
The Results: Operational Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction
The transformation was significant. With Apparel²¹, Texas Peak has reduced staffing costs, minimized frustration, and improved access to real-time information. "We’ve created a much happier environment, with much better access to information and availability in a timely manner," Martin shared.
He also highlighted the correlation between information and workplace satisfaction. "Information is a key operational tool for any business. When information is well-managed, frustration disappears, and work satisfaction increases."
Benefits of Integration
Martin compared Texas Peak’s streamlined operations to businesses relying on multiple disconnected systems. “Speaking to people from other businesses, where they need to use multiple systems and information isn’t properly integrated, I’m grateful for the functionality of Apparel²¹,” he said. “The ability to operate your entire business through one tool is fantastic. It does everything, and it does it well.”
Apparel²¹'s integration capabilities have also been critical in meeting the expectations of today’s wholesale and retail landscape. Martin noted the importance of 24/7 accessibility for customers. "Now, the expectation is that you are able to provide 24/7 ordering and omnichannel solutions. Apparel²¹ delivers that in spades."
Customer Experience Redefined
One of the most profound impacts of the Apparel²¹ system is the customer experience. "Customers want answers when they want them," Martin explained. “With SalesNet, they can see what their orders are, where deliveries are, if we’ve got stock—everything is available whenever they want it.”
This always-on approach has reduced stress for both customers and staff. "It works for customers, and it works for us. Happy days!" Martin remarked.
A Partnership Built on Collaboration
Martin emphasised the consultative relationship between Texas Peak and Apparel²¹. "We don’t go to Apparel²¹ with solutions. We share our challenges and let them bring their expertise to find the most effective way forward. 9.5 times out of 10, we land on a good solution," he said.
This collaborative approach has resulted in continuous improvement, ensuring Texas Peak stays ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market. "Operational efficiency is key. Information needs to be well-managed, and Apparel²¹ makes that possible."
Looking Ahead
Up to 80 people across Texas Peak use Apparel²¹ daily, so the ERP system remains integral to the company’s operations. As Martin put it, "I think Apparel²¹ is an excellent tool." Looking to the future, Texas Peak continues to explore new ways to optimize processes and serve customers better, confident that Apparel²¹ will evolve with their needs.
Transforming Wholesale with Apparel²¹
Apparel²¹ has proven to be more than an ERP system for Texas Peak and Brooks Running—it’s the foundation of their operational success. From eliminating inefficiencies to delivering an exceptional customer experience, Apparel²¹ has empowered Texas Peak to thrive in the competitive wholesale and retail landscape.
With a shared commitment to continuous improvement, Texas Peak and Apparel²¹ are setting new benchmarks for what’s possible in fashion wholesale. As Martin aptly summarised, "It’s about getting the right information at the right time. Apparel²¹ delivers that and so much more."
This case study showcases how Apparel²¹’s tailored solutions have helped Texas Peak and Brooks Running overcome challenges, optimise processes, and achieve operational excellence.
