Microsoft and Retail Specialist Aldata Announce Agreement to Deliver New Solutions for Microsoft Dynamics AX

REDMOND, Wash. and HELSINKI, Finland, June 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. and Aldata today announced the details of a global agreement for Aldata to deliver a new set of vertical applications for midsize retailers to complement Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail.

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Aldata's more than 20 years of retail best practice experience, combined with Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail, will provide a next generation of integrated retail solutions that include Replenishment and Merchandising Optimization, Store and POS Management, and Loyalty and Digital Marketing modules that are ready-made, fast to implement and easy to use for midsize retailers. The first Aldata Retail solutions on Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail will be available for home electronics, do-it-yourself, and sports and fashion retailers.

Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail provides retailers with an out-of-the-box, end-to-end solution that combines logistics, supply chain and financials with point of sale and store management tools to help them streamline business processes and more easily connect with their customers. It is especially suitable for companies that operate in multiple countries because of its built-in multilanguage, multicurrency and multilegislative features.

"The agreement with Aldata demonstrates the ability of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail to provide a solid, scalable foundation for the retail environment," said Crispin Read, general manager, Microsoft Dynamics ERP. "Aldata's deep experience in the retail sector, as well as a delivery and support organization around the globe, help bring the benefits of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail to retailers worldwide."

Aldata will initially offer its new applications on Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail in Finland. This will be followed by an international rollout via Aldata's subsidiary operations and distributors worldwide. The new solutions and go-to-market strategy are additions to Aldata's existing product lines and do not replace or supersede any existing Aldata products.

"At Aldata, our strategy is to focus all of our people, products and services on continuous retail business improvement. Our agreement with Microsoft will allow us to deliver this continuous improvement to a wider retail audience with the support of a global brand and stability of Microsoft SQL Server," said Allan Davies, Aldata's chief marketing officer. "We believe the combination of Aldata's specialist retail capability and Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail provides a fast and flexible way for midsize retailers to gain new cost, inventory and service benefits at low risk and low total cost of ownership."

As previously announced, Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail will be generally available in 16 countries Aug. 1, 2010, with additional countries to follow early next year.

About Aldata

Aldata is a global leader in the supply of integrated business solutions to organizations that serve the retail consumer and wholesale distribution markets. Aldata has an unparalleled 20-year track record of delivering targeted software projects that substantially improve our customers' businesses, from supplier to shopper. Today, Aldata customers include 15 of the World's 30 largest retailers, thousands of retail brands, and hundreds of national and regional chains. More at: www.aldata-solution.com

About Microsoft Dynamics

Microsoft Dynamics is a line of easy-to-use, integrated and adaptable ERP and CRM applications that enable business decision-makers to quickly respond to market shifts, take advantage of new trends, increase their competitive edge and drive business success. Microsoft Dynamics solutions are delivered through a world-class network of reselling partners providing specialized services and additional innovation to help customers excel in their industries.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

SOURCE Microsoft Corp.