Vera Bradley Designs Growth Strategies With Manhattan SCALE™

Under the best circumstances it's a challenge to individually implement ERP and supply chain solutions, automate paper-driven processes, or move to a larger warehouse. But try tackling it all at the same time. That's just what executives at Vera Bradley decided to do. But they really had no choice—the company was growing so fast it had to make improvements to meet customer demand and keep its product line fresh.

Vera Bradley designs and manufactures upscale handbags, luggage and accessories that are sold all over the world. They have been seen on prime time hit television shows and in more than 20 feature films. They've even made appearances in celebrity gift lounges at the Tony Awards, the Daytime Emmys and the Sundance Film Festival.

Friends Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller founded the Fort Waynebased company in 1982. "The brand is known for innovative design, meticulous craftsmanship and affordable quality," said Matt Wojewuczki, vice president of operations. The company still provides a personal touch reminiscent of its roots: wrapping each online order with tissue paper in a signature gift box.

With double-digit annual growth, and the company's products in hot demand, Vera Bradley had outgrown its 40,000 square foot warehouse. Other issues included paper processes and manual picking that yielded inaccuracies. A team was put together to take on "The Big Four" challenge: automate ordering processes, implement ERP and supply chain solutions, and move from a 40,000 to a 200,000 square foot facility.