Two primary web technology-oriented service providers serving the promotional products industry are teaming up. The collaborative relationship will enable their respective clients improved product data dissemination and more convenient access for distributors.
eBlox, an experienced web technology solutions provider based in Austin, Texas, is now able to directly extract data from the centralized product database hosted by DistributorCentral, headquartered near Kansas City. The integration is the first of its kind for both companies.
According to Brent Buford, eBlox CEO, the primary advantage of the integration with DistributorCentral will be both speed and improved accuracy.
“One of our biggest challenges has been getting data from suppliers in a timely manner,” said Buford. “The ability to source directly from DistributorCentral will streamline data flow with the added advantage of the data being more accurate and up to date.”
While product data is critical to eBlox’s ability to support customers, Buford said the company’s primary focus is providing customizable e-commerce solutions to the promotional products industry. Relying on DistributorCentral to access suppliers’ product information enables eBlox to concentrate on building robust e-commerce solutions for its clients.
Jason Nokes, President of Distributor Central, said the integration with eBlox represents another sales channel for suppliers. Making product data available on DistributorCentral enables suppliers to automatically have data available across the industry.
“Integration with eBlox is another example of how DistributorCentral makes it easy for suppliers to more efficiently disseminate up-to-date product information across the industry,” said Nokes.
The integration of eBlox and DistributorCentral is the result of collaborative testing and review by both companies’ technical support teams. eBlox will initially use the DistributorCentral feed for a limited group of key suppliers with expectations to grow the number as it switches current manual processes to rely on DistributorCentral product data.
About the companies:
- eBlox is a leading provider of highly customizable e-commerce solutions for the promotional products industry, including company stores, distributor e-commerce and supplier websites. Current clients include 3M, Norwood, AIA, Proforma and more. eBlox provides turnkey web solutions including search engine optimization, consulting, development, integration and maintenance.
- DistributorCentral is a full-feature, open centralized product database for the promotional product industry. The only product platform available free to suppliers, distributors and service providers, DistributorCentral enables suppliers to own and manage their own product data and makes it easier for distributors to locate, order and deliver quality products to end users.
