Avanti West Coast
Onboard retail and stock management for rail operations
Avanti West Coast required a new onboard retail and inventory management solution to support food and beverage sales across its network. The aim was to provide crews with faster, more reliable mobile technology, improve stock control and supply chain visibility, and create a better customer experience for onboard purchases.
ECR was selected to deliver its RailPro platform together with Pax A920Pro all-in-one handheld devices. The solution was designed as a cloud-based modular platform, supporting onboard sales, stock control, reporting and operational management through a joined-up digital workflow.
The system supports rail crews working in onboard retail environments, enabling them to manage orders, process payments and maintain live visibility of stock while on the move. It accepts a full range of payment methods, including contactless and mobile wallet, and is designed to operate reliably in the rail environment, including where connectivity is variable.
RailPro also integrates with catering logistics operations, providing the data needed to support stock allocation, replenishment and ordering. The platform includes built-in logistics functionality to help calculate stock requirements, manage product and recipe structures, and support more accurate forecasting and fulfilment.
The wider platform architecture also allows for customer-led digital ordering functionality where required, giving Avanti West Coast flexibility for future development.
Key capabilities
- Mobile onboard point of sale for rail crews
- Card, contactless and mobile wallet payment acceptance
- Cloud-based back-office platform and reporting
- Live stock visibility and onboard ordering workflows
- Integration with catering and logistics operations
- Modular platform designed to support future development
Implementation
The programme included mobilisation, due diligence, configuration, testing, training and pilot activity ahead of go-live. The contract defined a phased rollout beginning with core onboard retail and inventory management functionality, with scope for further development over time if required.
Result
The new system gives Avanti West Coast a more streamlined and operationally connected approach to onboard retail. It supports faster service for passengers, improves stock management and forecasting, and provides crews and head-office teams with better tools for managing onboard catering operations across the network.