Microsoft, Aldata Collaborate on Retail Apps

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Microsoft and Aldata, a Helsinki, Finland-based developer of retail applications, announced Monday that Aldata will develop a set of vertical applications for use with the software giant’s upcoming Dynamics AX for Retail package.

Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) said in a statement that it is on track to deliver Dynamics AX for Retail in 16 nations when it is released on August 1. Additional countries will be added early next year. The package is designed for use by medium-sized businesses.

“Dynamics AX for Retail … combines logistics, supply chain and financials with point of sale and store management tools,” according to Microsoft’s statement.

So what does Aldata provide that’s so important to Microsoft and, ultimately, business IT decision makers? Aldata’s vertical applications will support specific retail categories. Initial vertical retail markets supported include home electronics, do-it-yourself, sports, and fashion, the companies said.

“Aldata will provide a next generation of integrated retail solutions that include replenishment and merchandising optimization, store and POS [point of sale] management, and loyalty and digital marketing modules that are ready-made, fast to implement and easy to use,” the statement said.

The first implementation of Aldata’s vertical applications will be offered for sale in Finland in October, according to Microsoft, with broader international releases via Aldata’s global subsidiaries and distributors later. Dates for those roll outs were not disclosed.

Additionally, Aldata made a point to assure its existing customers that the Finnish firm will continue to provide its own solutions as well.

“The new solutions and go-to-market are in addition to Aldata’s existing product lines and do not replace or supersede any existing Aldata products,” a Microsoft spokesperson said in an e-mail to InternetNews.com.

Twenty-year-old Aldata provides integrated business solutions to organizations that provide retail, wholesale, logistics, and marketing services to billions of consumers around the world, according to statements on Aldata’s website.

Stuart J. Johnston is a contributing writer at InternetNews.com, the news service of Internet.com, the network for technology professionals.