A Message from Ken Munro

A message from Ken Munro, the new CEO of STL Distribution

The purchase of STL Distribution by John Ritchie Ltd brings to an end a very difficult period of uncertainty and disruption for all connected with STL Distribution. Today marks a fresh start and the beginning of an exciting future. As we embark on this new journey together, I want you to know that STL Distribution is back in business and working hard to return to the standard of service both suppliers and retailers have come to expect over the years.

We are committed to serving you and our mission is to equip your ministry with Christian resources effectively and efficiently. Over the coming weeks we are focussing on all aspects of the business to ensure that our service to you improves. Our immediate priorities will be…

• Availability - We’re re-stocking to improve our availability and fill rate
• Suppliers - I’ve met with numerous key suppliers in recent days . A number have already committed to working with the new STL Distribution business and positive discussions with many others give me confidence that early in the new year we will be able to announce substantial continuity of existing agreements and a few exciting new additions.
• IT systems - We will be replacing SAP with the previously operational IT platform (Informix). The transition project is already well underway and we expect to have the updated Informix platform operational within the first quarter of 2010. This is not a high risk IT project, with significant in-house knowledge and experience being brought to bear and previously robust process and technology being re-activated. Interim operational processes and IT are in place to ensure that service is minimally impacted through the transition. We will communicate the detailed IT plan in January and provide regular updates going forward.
  

I very much look forward to entering the next exciting chapter of STL Distribution’s story with you. If you have any queries do please contact our Customer Service Department or your Area Sales Manager who will be very happy to help you.

Finally, thank you for your support and prayers over the past few weeks and I look forward to serving you in 2010.

Ken Munro
CEO, STL Distribution