RS Components Launches Industry-first app for its Branch Network

CORBY, England, January 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

MyLocalRS app drives efficiency and saves time for customers

RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), the world's leading high service distributor of electronics and maintenance products, has announced the launch of a specialist app for its branch network. The first of its kind in the high service distribution market, MyLocalRS app will bring the complete range of 550,000 products, such as batteries and connectors, even closer to those customers on the move.

Optimised for the iPad, iPhone and Android smartphones, MyLocalRS app helps customers find, locate and contact their local RS branch at a touch of a button. Featuring the latest offers and 'Manager's Specials' in each of the 16 UK branches, the app also offers a handy delivery checker to help customers monitor courier delivery times and prices. Furthermore, a series of videos highlights the range of customised solutions and explains how RS can help customers reduce time for packaging, processing, stock handling and goods-in.

Lisa Townsend, Branch Marketing Developer at RS Components, comments: "MyLocalRS is an extension of the service customers already get from their local RS branch. It's an exciting innovation for RS as it helps our customers locate their nearest branch, check stock availability, order products and see the latest offers - while on the go. Our branch teams have a great relationship with their customers and the app helps maintain a personal touch when it's not possible to be face to face."

Head of Innovation at RS Components, Martijn Duchatteau adds: "We are proud to introduce MyLocalRS. We have developed this app for the iPad, iPhone and Android smartphones to help drive efficiency for our customers. MyLocalRS saves customers time while maintaining the personal relationship they have with their local branch. We are committed to continuously developing new solutions for our customers using the latest and most innovative technologies available."

The app also has a link to the RS UK website which receives more than 1.5m hits every month. The site allows customers to browse through thousands of products including popular items such as connectors and screws, check stock availability and then order them for collection from their local branch or choose free next day delivery.

MyLocalRS app is available now on iPad, iPhone and Android smartphones and can be downloaded from the Android Market or the Apple App Store. The launch is being supported with in-branch activity, customer competitions and a dedicated page on the website:

http://uk.rs-online.com/web/generalDisplay.html?id=branchNetwork

About RS Components

RS Components and Allied Electronics are the trading brands of Electrocomponents plc, the world's leading high service distributor of electronics and maintenance products. Through operations in 32 countries and 17 warehouses, the Group serves 1.6 million customers worldwide and distributes 550,000 products ranging from semiconductors and optoelectronics to power tools and protective clothing. The product and service portfolio supports the entire product lifecycle from R&D through pre-production to maintenance and repair. The Group ships more than 46,000 parcels on the same day the orders are received.

Electrocomponents is listed on the London Stock Exchange and in the last financial year to 31 March 2011 had revenues of £1.18bn.

For more information, please visit the website at http://www.rs-components.com.

Editorial contact:
Amy Hayward-Paine
UK PR Manager
Amy.hayward-paine@rs-components.com
+44(0)1536-405156