Elevating B2B Ordering: The Contractor Nation Success Story

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5 years ago, Contractor Nation came to us with a challenge:

"Put these 6 print catalogs on a website."

Here's how we transformed their outdated ordering system:

(You can read the text below or watch a video here)

1️⃣ Built 5 interconnected e-commerce sites on Adobe Commerce (Magento)

We created a network of five interconnected websites:

• CN Store (parent domain)

• Basement Systems

• Dr. Energy Saver

• Total Basement Finishing

• Gutter Shutter

Each site has its own unique catalog, but they're all connected under one powerful platform. This allows dealers to easily access products across different divisions without juggling multiple systems.

The flexibility of Adobe Commerce allowed us to map complex business rules unique to Contractor Nation's operations. For example, a Basement Systems dealer can also order products from the Gutter Shutter catalog if needed.

2️⃣ Integrated with their ERP system for real-time pricing & inventory

We built a custom connector to link Adobe Commerce with Contractor Nation's existing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system. This integration enables:

• Real-time product data syncing

• Accurate pricing based on dealer-specific rules

• Up-to-date inventory levels

When a dealer logs in, they see their personalized catalog with correct pricing and availability. This eliminates confusion and ensures a smooth ordering process.

3️⃣ Created custom dealer logins with personalized catalogs & pricing

We implemented a secure login system for dealers. When a dealer logs in:

• They only see products relevant to their business division(s)

• Pricing is customized based on their specific agreement with Contractor Nation

• They can access saved lists of frequently ordered items

This personalization makes ordering faster and reduces errors. Dealers no longer have to sift through irrelevant products or double-check pricing.

4️⃣ Automated order processing & fulfillment workflows

Once an order is placed, our system:

• Splits the order if it contains products from multiple divisions

• Routes each part of the order to the correct fulfillment center

• Updates inventory levels automatically

• Generates picking lists and shipping labels

This automation has dramatically reduced manual data entry and processing time, allowing Contractor Nation's staff to focus on higher-value tasks.

5️⃣ Eliminated manual data entry & catalog printing

Before this project, Contractor Nation spent months each year creating and updating print catalogs. Now, product information is centralized in the e-commerce platform, updates can be made instantly and are immediately visible to dealers, and the need for printed catalogs has been eliminated, saving time and resources. This shift not only saves money but ensures dealers always have access to the most up-to-date product information.

The results?

✅ 95% of dealers now order online (way higher than expected)
✅ Freed up staff from manual order processing
✅ Dealers placing larger, more comprehensive orders
✅ Eliminated costly annual catalog printing
✅ Faster updates to product info & pricing

The key to success? A flexible e-commerce platform that could map to Contractor Nation's unique business rules.

By truly understanding their needs, we built a solution that transformed their business.

At Harris Web Works, we specialize in helping supply chain partners like Contractor Nation meet new generational buyer demands. Our expertise in installing streamlined e-commerce systems can help manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors transform their digital presence and boost efficiency.

Want to know more, watch the video below:

That’s all for this week,

Matt

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Whenever you're ready, here's how we can help you:

Harris Web Works is a digital transformation agency that helps supply chain partners (manufacturers, wholesalers & distributors) meet new generational buyer demands & expectations by installing streamlined e-commerce systems.

To learn more about how we can help you future-proof your business, click here.