Managing inventory on an outdated system

As every seasoned trailblazer knows, even the best journeys come with obstacles. Before switching to Lightspeed in July 2023, TreadZ was using an outdated POS system where every inventory order required a painstaking, manual process. 

“A 100-item order could take three to four hours,” recalls Ryan Pratt, Owner of TreadZ. 

With 25 to 30 purchase orders placed weekly, that inefficiency added up fast. He and his team were spending hours inputting data instead of helping customers gear up for their next adventure. He needed a way to streamline operations, free up time and ensure the store had the right products when customers needed them most.

Streamlining operations with intuitive technology

When Ryan discovered Lightspeed, he saw an opportunity to shed inefficiencies and give his team more time to focus on what they do best: delivering an exceptional customer experience.

The game-changer? Lightspeed NuORDER. “The big selling point for me was being able to import purchase orders from NuORDER directly into Lightspeed,” Ryan says. Orders that once took hours can now be completed in just 10 minutes. The shift has allowed TreadZ to process seasonal inventory changes with ease, ensuring their shelves are stocked with the right mix of outdoor and urban styles.

Lightspeed has also made inventory management more reliable. “Now, we can place an order, wait for it to arrive, import it and it’s ready to go,” Ryan explains.

With 125-150 suppliers to coordinate, the ability to streamline purchase orders has been transformative. More than just convenience, it ensures TreadZ is always ready when customers walk through the door.

Fueling TreadZ’ growth with Lightspeed Capital

Lightspeed Capital has also been instrumental in keeping TreadZ agile. Since jumping aboard, Ryan has used three Lightspeed Capital cash advances to invest in inventory, technology and even store improvements. 

“Capital was much cheaper for me than going to a bank,” he says. “The structure is easy, and I don’t even have to think about it. The business takes care of it naturally.” This flexibility has allowed him to reinvest in his team, ensuring that employees not only stay but continue to develop the expertise that keeps customers coming back.

Onward and upward

Looking ahead, Ryan is excited about diving deeper into Lightspeed Insights for forecasting and inventory planning. While he’s still refining his approach, he sees enormous potential in using data-driven insights to make smarter purchasing decisions.

“I’m just a Lightspeed fan,” Ryan says. Adding that the difference in efficiency, the time savings and the ability to focus on the bigger picture has been night and day.

For TreadZ, that means more time spent guiding customers toward their next great find, more resources invested in their team and the ability to keep evolving—no matter where the trail leads.