21 February 2011 - Installation of IFS Online freight system complete.

We've recently undergone a freight transformation in conjunction with T&DC consultants and a new transport software solution from IFS (Interactive freight systems). Our new software platform automates the despatch process and produces barcoded freight labels for cartons, satchels and other packages and then electronically provides shipment details to our transport companies. We now use Australian Air Express for express shipments under 3 Kg's, Toll Ipec for all bulk shipments, Fastway couriers for local South East Queensland and Australia Post all without hand written consignment notes.

Other benefits of the system include least cost routing, enhanced reporting for different entities and paperless tracking of con notes. All of which combine with the time savings of writing manual con notes and allow us to develop further product distribution relationships from our warehouse.

5 March 2011 - Downloadable catalogue has been updated.

Today we've just completed an update on our download-able catalogue to include many of the photo updates from our last photo shoot in December. Louise is the model and Richard Arthur the photographer were on set at a Sydney hotel for the shoot. We're still missing a few bras and items that will need to be redone at a later date, but this can wait until after mid year when new samples start to arrive.

23 March 2011 - Bad debts are a thing of the past.

Late last year we decided to move away from traditional 30 day accounts in favour of pay up front for all new accounts. Not only do we now save on bad debts, but also debt collection fees which can both add up over the years. In fact if we were to recoup our 3 largest single bad debts since 2000, we could order another 5 shipping containers worth of bras that would retail for over $1,000,000.

How does this policy change affect customers?

New customers placing orders through a sales agent may be eligible for an upfront discount on every invoice. The savings created by us reducing risk and collection costs are significant and now those savings can be re-directed back to customers in the form of early settlement discounts.

12 April 2011 - Australia Post increase postal charges

On 4th April Australia Post increased their rates on regular parcel post items. The new price for a 500gram parcel post satchel is $6.30. Our postal rates will accordingly increase to $6.30 ex GST to reflect the price rise, packaging and risk allowance for lost postal items.

9 December 2011 - Christmas trading

Gala Bras will be closed from Friday 23rd December and will re-open for the wholesale business on Tuesday 3rd January. We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year. Let's hope 2012 brings everyone better trading conditions.