The new Homebase DIY superstore in Aylesford, Kent is the latest store in the group to install Quail Digital wireless headsets to improve customer service.

The combination of staff wearing wireless headsets linked with keypads located at help points and cash desks in store provide a flexible and efficient platform to maximize efficiency and customer service.

The system enables supervisors and staff with specialist knowledge to keep in constant contact working in every area and department of the shop floor, mezzanine sales areas and garden centre whilst also receiving assistance messages from key pads and help points.

Every department now uses wireless headsets which have replaced the more cumbersome and limiting radios that had previously been utilised. The lightweight headsets operate hands free, need no belt pack or cables and are comfortable to wear throughout a working day.

The ease of communication means that staff are able to respond instantly to a range of requests from the cash desk, office and sales areas through to queries about individual articles and stock levels and general customer requests for information or assistance.

Homebase Customer Service Development Manager, Jon Hamilton said: "Colleagues find the system easy to use and very convenient; it saves a lot of time locating the right team member with the right knowledge, and helps give better service."

Tom Downes, Quail Digital CEO comments on the use of the equipment in the new store: "Wireless headsets create efficiency. Our customers are focused on the customer experience and good communication is part of that strategy. Homebase uses Quail Digital very effectively, giving staff the flexibility to work as an outstanding team in store."

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For more information, please contact:
John Eskdale, Pilotmax +44 (0)20 8334 0200 john@pilotmax.co.uk
Beccy Whittles, Pilotmax +44 (0)20 8334 0200 beccy@pilotmax.co.uk

Homebase
Homebase is the UK’s leading home enhancement retailer and is recognised for choice, style and customer service. It has more than 340 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland. In the financial year to February 2011, Homebase sales were £1.6 billion and it employed some 19,000 people across the business.

Homebase sells over 38,000 products across its home enhancement ranges, and has a growing Internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. Homebase serves over 65 million customers per year through its stores and offers customers the convenience of home delivery for bulky, high-value items.

Homebase was the first UK DIY retailer to achieve Forest Stewardship Council Chain of Custody certification and the first national DIY retailer to be recognised with a Government TrustMark Award, achieved for its kitchen installation service.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

Home Retail Group has been awarded the Carbon Trust Standard which certifies that we have genuinely reduced our carbon footprint. We call our responsible approach ‘the basis of good business’. Find out more at www.thebasisofgoodbusiness.co.uk

For more information contact, Media Relations, tel: 0845 1204365, email: press.officer@homeretailgroup.com