LARM, since its first inception back in the mid sixties, has always plaid a pivotal role in the Italian Cycling and Accessories Markets, and it is now one of the most important players of this Market. A prestigious position which has been reached thanks to a goal pursued since the very beginning: Total Customer Satisfaction.

ORGANIZATION AND SALES NETWORK
LARM has 20 direct resources and an indirect sales network formed by 16 sales representatives covering the whole Italian territory. In addition it has an international distribution network covering foreign markets (Europe, USA, Asia, Australia). LARM is therefore able to ensure that each brand in portfolio has deployed an adequate space and be followed at all stages of business development. Throughout its organization LARM is able to test samples and evaluate their feasibility and positioning, allowing the manufacturer to correctly appraise Market responsiveness and trends.

The commercial organization adopts codified processes adequately supported by the information system to qualify and manage contacts both in pre-sales and post sales phases.

LARM sales representatives and distributors are constantly assisted and coordinated by the direct sales staff that supports them on the territory on regular bases, with visits planned several times during the season. LARM sales network is also available to manufacturers if they wish to visit the territory.

LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT
Since the very beginning, LARM has always invested heavy resources for the computerization and the continuous improvement of its logistics system, which currently has the following features:

  • over 3,500 sqmts dedicated to the warehouse, a structure that allows to work with the full availability of the references; customers may therefore avoid the burden of managing a large inventory always counting on real time restocking (generally in 12-24 hours)
  • barcodes management on all the articles in the warehouse; if the manufacturer’s barcode can not be used or is not compatible, LARM is able to place the labels with its own staff
  • complete mapping of the warehouse locations on the company’s ERP for immediate inventory monitoring and stock shortage management
  • Six direct resources fully dedicated to the internal handling of articles

ORDER MANAGEMENT
Maximum flexibility! Thanks to its organization LARM is able to offer the highest level of flexibility in the order taking/management process, whose main points are:

  • B2B System. LARM has been a forerunner in the use of the B2B system and has consistently invested in its improvement. System in use for over 6 years. Third release now available
  • Internet based application with very good performances also with low connectivity
  • Web access; an Apple iPad compatible version available

Our system takes care of user’s data and documents which are encrypted and stored in a data centre adopting the highest technology standards. The application allow real-time display of articles availability and individual status (open orders, shipments, etc…), supporting Customers and sales representatives in the sales process.

Great flexibility in the order taking process that can be done by:

  • B2B with H24 coverage
  • Sales representatives, with extensive coverage throughout the national territory
  • Dedicated phone line

CUSTOMER SERVICE
An extensive support is assured through all stages of the business relationship, from technical advice on products, order taking, tracking and delivery to after-sales service (warranty management and returns, restocking etc.)

  • Each brand in portfolio is managed by a dedicated staff
  • Availability of a phone line dedicated to the end consumer with the aim of providing technical information, availability of products and shops location
  • Stock always available and maximum flexibility in processing the order, with the possibility to ship very small quantities
  • Short order processing time, thanks to full automation of internal logistics

Maximize Customer Satisfaction through fast and effective product technical problem solving is the philosophy that drives our after-sale service. This activity is followed by an internal department providing technical assistance and spare parts both from our premises and directly on field. Our technical department has proved experience gained supporting the most prestigious Downhill, Freeride, Cross Countery and Marathon Teams. The extensive use of information system allows us to provide fast assistance and minimize waiting time both for Customers and End-Users.

Our personnel is also able to support manufacturers in translating product instructions and manuals and provide technical workshops to retailers.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION
LARM pays great attention to marketing and communication and has a dedicated department for that.

The deep knowledge of the market, allows LARM to provide manufacturers with its know-how also with regard to product development, launch and communications.

LARM is also able to develop and implement customized marketing & communication plans according to the needs of each brand and constantly monitor the positioning and sell-out of products in stores.

The large and constant presence of LARM advertising and editorials on the main Cycling magazines, provides good visibility on the marks and continuous information to the consumer.

The annual plan covers the most important Italian magazines, such as:

  • Bici Sport ·
  • Cicloturismo
  • MTB Magazine
  • Cycling
  • La Bicicletta
  • MTB World
  • Granfondo

With the presence of its staff, a mobile exhibition structure of about 70 sqmts and equipped vehicles, LARM participates in all major marathons, sporting events and testing days. Moreover LARM exhibits at Expo Bici Padova, with a boot of 300 sqmts.

The philosophy that stands behind LARM’s brand management is to have only the most relevant players in its portfolio. LARM usually accompanies the growth of each brand in its reference market. Only brands that really show high potentiality are included in LARM’s portfolio and, more important, only brands that LARMS can effectively support with a top class customer service are distributed. For this reason LARM does not aim to expand at all costs its portfolio and can select the players which are complementary and do not create overlapping in its portfolio.