Square D launches new retail construction initiative

Square D/Schneider Electric (Palatine, IL) recently formed a dedicated business team charged with reducing cycle time and costs in the construction of retail facilities. The retail construction initiative combines the development of products, services and business support systems to meet the needs of multi-site retail companies and the electrical contractors and equipment manufacturers who serve the industry.

To help retailers simplify the process for constructing new stores, the company is fielding a national sales force assisted by a cross-functional support team responsible for coordinating all aspects of the company's involvement with retail projects, from engineering and manufacturing to information technologies. Logistical services, including quote and order management, are being enhanced. The team also is responsible for assisting North American retailers who are building new stores around the world.

Developing equipment that is faster to install and that has a smaller footprint to maximize selling space is an important part of Square D's retail construction initiative. A Modular Panelboard System that is easier to handle and wire was the first product to be rolled out by the new team. Integrated Power Centers that are custom-engineered for individual customer applications have also been introduced to the market. These new power centers reduce the footprint of the power distribution equipment and integrate lighting and environmental controls into a pre-wired and factory-tested unit. This results in significant timesaving in field installation.

Chris Curtis, U.S. marketing vice president for Square D and its parent company, Schneider Electric, has named Commercial Market Segment Manager James Winstead to lead the retail construction program. "Creating a team that strengthens our support of the retail industry enables us to focus the expertise and capabilities of Square D on meeting the changing needs of the industry, both in North America and around the world," said Curtis.

"The retail industry is all about time to market, cost efficiency and uninterrupted operation," said Winstead.

Edited by Jerry R. Borland, P.E.
Managing Editor, EC Online