Auto recycler drives home IT overhaul

SALVAGE vehicle recycler Charles Trent is preparing for further national expansion by appointing Codestone as its key financial software partner.

The Poole-based auto firm, which has doubled turnover in the past three years, works closely with major insurance companies to recycle salvage vehicles responsibly.

Since launching in the 1920s they’ve opened new sites in Southampton, Nottingham, Erith and Paddock Wood and the business has expanded to include the sale of salvage vehicles and spare parts.

With more sites and bigger, more complex contracts, the IT system managing its accounting and sales/purchase functions was struggling to keep up and Codestone was called in to help.

The project, worth an undisclosed five figure sum to technology specialist Codestone, involves installing SAP Business One – an integrated accounting application that will enable Charles Trent to track and accurately report on the financial performance of each sector of the business and each location.

David Shelton of Charles Trent Ltd said: “SAP Business One will give us a better financial insight into costs and revenue and will help us to stay competitive and profitable.

“We’re looking to acquire more sites close to big conurbations throughout mainland UK so we can continue recycling salvage vehicles quickly with minimal trucking miles.

“We chose Codestone because they have triple gold accreditation with Microsoft, Citrix and SAP. When compared with the other potential providers they showed the greatest understanding of our business and had the most flexible approach.”

Jeremy Bucknell, Managing Director of Poole-based Codestone, said: “SAP Business One is the ideal application and will greatly enhance efficiency. We’re delighted to welcome Charles Trent Ltd as a valued SAP customer.”