Microsoft and CRS Retail Systems Strengthen Relationship; CRS First Company to Receive Microsoft`s .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing Certification
Store Application Among First to Run Microsoft`s New Retailer Optimized Standard Software Platform
NEWBURGH, N.Y. -- Jan. 17, 2005 --
CRS Retail Systems, Inc., market-leading provider of point-of-sale (POS), store systems, merchandising and retail analytics software for specialty and general merchandise retailers, today announced that it is the first company to obtain Microsoft`s coveted .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing certification and logo. In addition, CRS is among the first software companies to deliver store applications running on Windows Embedded for Point of Service -- Microsoft`s new standard software platform optimized for retail applications.
Working with Microsoft, CRS -- a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner -- has undertaken a multi-pronged program to develop and deliver more powerful, next-generation solutions based on Microsoft`s new technologies and its Microsoft Smarter Retailing framework.
CRS RetailStore(TM) point-of-sale is the first solution in the industry to receive Microsoft .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing certification and logo. Solutions branded with the .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing logo enable customers to more quickly and easily integrate with their business partners, connect with their own customers, and provide the right information to their employees, saving time and conserving capital. Microsoft .NET makes it easier to connect inside the organization, across physical locations and between organizations, while providing a software foundation that is easier to deploy, maintain and adapt than conventional software.
For a solution to qualify for the .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing logo, it must be built on the Microsoft .NET Framework and must either expose or consume a Web service. In addition, the solution is required to comply with the National Retail Federation`s ARTS IXRetail standard XML schemas for interfacing applications within the retail enterprise. CRS plans to deliver other Microsoft .NET-architected applications throughout the year.
The company also announced today that CRS RetailStore(TM) is among the first software applications optimized for Windows Embedded for Point of Service. The new standard software platform, which is a core component of Microsoft Smarter Retailing, enables seamless plug-and-play functionality in order to simplify the set up, use, and management of retailers` point-of-service systems and device peripherals -- such as scanners, receipt printers, cash drawers and magnetic stripe readers. CRS RetailStore is a comprehensive, point-of-sale and back-office application designed to handle all transactions, processes and workflow typical of a retail store environment.
"We have adopted the Microsoft .NET Framework and Windows Embedded for Point of Service operating system because these technologies support CRS` goal of delivering integrated solutions to help retailers improve the store experience for both customers and sales associates, while driving profitability and efficiency," said Kathy Frommer, chief executive officer of CRS Retail Systems. "We have worked closely with Microsoft for many years and continue to believe that Microsoft technologies provide the best tools for our developers, and the optimal platforms for the applications our customers rely on."
"Achieving Microsoft`s .NET Connected for Smarter Retailing logo is a true testament to CRS` commitment to developing software based on open industry standards and providing retailers with cost-effective, flexible solutions to meet their business needs," said Brian Scott, general manager for Microsoft`s Retail & Hospitality Industry Unit. "CRS` applications optimized for Windows Embedded for Point of Service and built using the Microsoft .NET Framework demonstrate how our alliance is delivering value to the retail community."
According to Richard Mader, executive director of ARTS, the standards division of the NRF, CRS RetailStore has met ARTS/IX Retail conformance. "CRS is one of the first companies to have an application confirmed by ARTS as conforming to the standard POSlog XML schema for integrating applications. This is an important distinction because XML-based applications will not only help retailers in integrating solutions, but will help them realize additional business benefits when applications and information are easily integrated throughout the enterprise," said Mader.
Microsoft Smarter Retailing Initiative
Microsoft Smarter Retailing, announced one year ago, encompasses a comprehensive solutions framework to help retailers win today by leveraging current investments, and win tomorrow by easing delivery of new retail experiences. The framework is based on open standards for enabling retailers to take full advantage of their legacy investments by connecting the retail enterprise to the store and the consumer. Based on extensive research, Microsoft Smarter Retailing focuses on three critical areas: Smarter Shopping -- delivering a seamless, personalized experience for retail customers; Smarter Selling -- empowering the in-store people who interact with customers; and Smarter Operations -- achieving real-time visibility into the metrics that drive store-level profitability. CRS` retail applications address all three areas.
About CRS Retail Systems, Inc. (http://www.crsretail.com)
CRS Retail Systems provides retail management software, hardware, and services to help its customers drive sales, improve customer service, and reduce operating costs, all with more ease and flexibility. With more than 50,000 in-store systems installed in 32 countries and 10 languages, CRS is a trusted leader in the retail industry. CRS customers include leading retailers, such as Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Ann Taylor, Barnes & Noble, bebe, Cache, Chico`s, Coach, Dress Barn, Eileen Fisher, Factory Connection, Finish Line, Foot Locker, GNC, J. Crew, Pro Golf Discount, Skechers, St. John Knits, Stage Stores, Transworld Entertainment, Tuesday Morning, Inc., Woodcraft, Yankee Candle Company and Zumiez, among others. CRS is privately held with more than 360 employees based in Newburgh, N.Y. and regional offices in Seattle, WA, and Salt Lake City, Utah. For more information, please visit http://www.crsretail.com, or call 845-567-1234.
At the National Retail Federation Convention and EXPO this week in New York City, CRS will be demonstrating CRS RetailStore and other applications running on Microsoft platforms -- CRS Booth (#1643),Microsoft`s Pavilion (#413).
The Harbor Group / for CRS Retail Systems
Lisa Hendrickson, 978-526-1601 x6
lisa@theHarborGroup.com
Susana Thompson, 978-526-1601 x2
sthompson@theHarborGroup.com
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