This data exchange format, developed in collaboration with partners and peers, allows us to focus our efforts on the richness of our data and to redirect the energy previously spent managing multiple formats. Our industry must prepare for its structural transformations: the generalization of webshops, a customer journey that is becoming multichannel, purchasing and logistics that are consolidating, transportation to be optimized, product offerings to be technically characterized (ETIM tab integration), and a legislative environment that is evolving (WEEE taxes, transport and storage of hazardous products). In this context, the FAB-DIS format is the appropriate response to these changes and integrates seamlessly with all business tools.

FAB-DIS is a fantastic tool for finally having a single file with qualified data and the same structure for the entire industry. For an SME like ours, it can sometimes be tedious, but it’s necessary. It has helped us organize ourselves better.

FAB-DIS provides a considerable time saving for all the brands in our company. The sales and marketing assistants, who previously spent time copying and pasting into our customers’ templates, now use this standard. On the distributors’ side, we are seeing that FAB-DIS is increasingly used and requested. In any case, it was no longer possible to adapt to all the specific templates, as more and more distributors are asking for more and more data.”

A few years ago, we were managing around fifteen different files, all filled in manually. The FAB-DIS format arrived at the same time as the development of our product database and our new website, both of which are still constantly evolving. The outcome has been very positive. Today, by adopting this format and its ongoing evolution, we are further improving our internal and external efficiency.

Using the FAB-DIS data exchange format makes it possible to implement a data validation platform that is always the same regardless of the manufacturer. This saves time and standardizes product information flows while streamlining product data exchanges. A significant number of our suppliers have been consolidated, and certain ETIM data have been successfully integrated. As a leading player in the distribution sector, our group actively participates in the FAB-DIS Commission to support the deployment of the format in the renovation, new construction, and home improvement markets.

“A real step forward in the quality and richness of data exchanges with manufacturers. The standardization of the format brings greater responsiveness in processing information. The optimization of media data allows us to relay it accurately to our customers across our various web and print channels.
This standardized structure for exchanges between manufacturers and distributors is developed collaboratively and, moreover, made available free of charge. It contributes to a win–win partnership that supports the growth of our companies.”