MEDIA RELEASE - The Trusts is embarking on a major digital transformation to boost efficiencies to see even more cash flow back into the West Auckland community.

Owned by the West Auckland public, The Trusts sells alcohol responsibly and returns surplus profits back into the community in the form of grants, donations, sponsorships and rebates.

It has close to 400 employees across its support office, retail and hospitality outlets and is the second largest employer in West Auckland.

The Trusts four-year partnership with Vodafone includes a separate innovation fund to explore and test new digital applications to improve the point of sale experience for customers.

CEO Simon Wickham said The Trusts is looking forward to implementing the changes.

“The Trusts has a proud history of giving back to its community but in order for our business to remain profitable and effective, it is essential that we innovate.

“We have been looking for a partner with an innovative ICT solution to meet our needs and we are very confident Vodafone’s solutions and network will enable us to achieve the results we are looking for,” said Simon Wickhan.

The transformation will include improved mobile voice and data capability, network connectivity across sites, a unified communications framework, improved security, modern call centre software and improved Wi-Fi services for customers in its retail stores and hospitality venues.

Vodafone’s Enterprise Director Ken Tunnicliffe said Vodafone’s range of Ready Business solutions will support The Trusts to work smarter and more efficiently now, and into the future.

“A flexible, reliable and intuitive communications framework is essential for kiwi businesses wanting to innovate and remain competitive in today’s rapidly changing digital world.

“This digital transformation will mean The Trust’s employees can connect to each other, their customers and the business more securely and confidently.

“Implementing cloud-based phone and computer systems means The Trusts will no longer need to pour cash into its ageing infrastructure, as the software is regularly upgraded as part of the package,” said Ken Tunnicliffe.