How We Transformed Torpedo7’s Ecommerce Experience in 8 Weeks

At Blackpepper, we thrive on tackling complex challenges - and our partnership with Torpedo7 is a perfect example of how innovative technology and collaboration can deliver extraordinary results. When Torpedo7 approached us, they needed to completely overhaul their ERP, POS, and ecommerce platform solutions. With an ambitious deadline of just 8 weeks for what is typically a 6-month process, we knew we had to deliver something truly remarkable.

Leveraging our proprietary Cody platform, along with cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team, we successfully transformed Torpedo7’s digital infrastructure, ensuring the project was completed on time with minimal disruptions to their operations.

The Challenge: A Complete Digital Overhaul on a Tight Timeline

Torpedo7, one of New Zealand’s leading outdoor retailers, needed a complete tech stack migration that involved updating their ERP, POS, and ecommerce platforms. Their goal? To create a more unified and customer-friendly shopping experience, both in-store and online. However, with only 8 weeks to complete the project, the timeline was tight for such a significant overhaul.

This transformation also involved addressing specific challenges like integrating custom logic for loyalty and freight management while maintaining full operational capacity across all sales channels. The project demanded seamless integration across multiple systems while avoiding any disruption to Torpedo7’s ongoing sales.

Our Solution: Leveraging the Power of Cody

To meet Torpedo7’s needs, we turned to our proprietary Cody platform, which allowed us to fast-track the migration process while ensuring every part of the new infrastructure worked smoothly. Here’s how we tackled the core elements of the project:

- Custom Solutions Tailored to Torpedo7’s Needs: We built custom logic around loyalty programs and freight management. These features were critical for maintaining a seamless user experience as they allowed for personalised customer experiences and more efficient order fulfilment.
- Search & Searchandising: We implemented an advanced search engine that provided more relevant and dynamic search results, capable of handling complex queries and updating products and pricing in real-time. On top of that, we deployed “Searchandising,” a feature that allows Torpedo7’s team to merchandise and fine-tune popular search result pages. This not only improved the user experience but also drove conversion rates by guiding users to the products they were looking for faster.
- Checkout V2: Our continuously optimised Checkout V2 system, built for conversion-driving benefits, was implemented to enhance the checkout experience. With a streamlined checkout process, customers are more likely to complete their purchases, reducing cart abandonment rates.
- Personalisation with AI Recommendations: To further enhance the shopping experience, we integrated an AI-powered recommendation engine that drives “You might also like” suggestions. By using vector similarity, the engine delivers the most relevant product recommendations, creating a more personalised and engaging shopping experience.

Key Integrations: Enhancing the Ecosystem

In addition to improving the ecommerce experience, we also integrated Torpedo7 with DotDigital for CRM, database management, and email marketing. This integration allows Torpedo7 to create highly personalised marketing campaigns and better segment their audience for more targeted outreach.

The CRM integration was a key component of this overhaul, as it connected Torpedo7’s backend systems with their customer communications, allowing for greater personalisation in email marketing and seamless customer journeys from browsing to purchase.

The Results: A Seamless Transformation with Record-Breaking Results

Despite the tight deadline, we completed the full migration on time, ensuring a smooth deployment with minimal disruptions to Torpedo7’s daily operations. The results were nothing short of remarkable:

- Highest Conversion Rate Achieved: Following the launch, Torpedo7 experienced a record-breaking conversion rate of 3.87%, outperforming even their biggest sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
- Seamless Deployment: The entire project was delivered on time with minimal disruptions to Torpedo7’s trade, which was critical for their business continuity.
- Personalised Shopping Experiences: With the integration of AI-powered recommendations and CRM improvements, Torpedo7 is now better positioned to deliver personalised and engaging customer experiences, both online and through email marketing.

Key Lessons for Ecommerce Businesses

This project reinforced some key takeaways for ecommerce businesses:

- Innovative Solutions Drive Results: Investing in the right technology, like a robust search engine or personalised recommendation systems, can significantly improve user experience and conversion rates.
- Custom Solutions Pay Off: Tailoring features like loyalty programs and checkout flows to your business model helps differentiate your ecommerce site and enhances customer retention.
- Collaboration is Key: Seamless collaboration between teams - Blackpepper, Torpedo7, and OnTempo - made the tight deadline achievable. Strong partnerships drive better results.

Future-Proofing Ecommerce with Blackpepper

The success of Torpedo7’s platform overhaul shows the power of agile solutions, innovative technology, and collaboration. At Blackpepper, we pride ourselves on delivering these results under pressure, ensuring our clients can continue to grow and adapt to an ever-changing ecommerce landscape.

If you’re looking to upgrade your ecommerce platform or need support managing large-scale digital transformations, our team is ready to help.