Press release

The JTL-Fulfillment Network is here - the independent platform for managing all fulfillment processes for retailers and fulfillers

Hückelhoven, January 27, 2021 – Today, JTL-Software-GmbH is releasing its independent fulfillment platform, the JTL-Fulfillment Network. Retailers and fulfillers are given a convenient way to network with each other without detours, outsource the shipping of goods or offer their own logistics services. Optimized search and filter functions and the stabilized interface technology make handling easier for Applications. The numerous options for connecting to the JTL-Fulfillment Network without using JTL products or eCommerce software also make the network an independent platform.

Ease of use within the constantly growing network

Fulfillment service providers can advertise their warehouses via the JTL-Fulfillment Network (FFN for short). Thanks to the extensive search functions, interested retailers can quickly find the right fulfillment service provider by filtering according to certain characteristics such as handling best-before date products, organic certification or the use of certain types of packaging. A clear dashboard for both retailers and fulfillers also contributes to the goal of increased usability: All relevant key figures and statistics can be clearly viewed here in order to derive developments and trends.

There are currently 70 fulfillment service providers connected to the network, each operating between one and 15 warehouses. In addition to Germany, there are warehouse locations in Austria, Switzerland and Hungary. Other logistics providers from Poland, the Czech Republic, France, Spain, Turkey and the USA are already in the implementation phase.

Stable interface for near-real time communication

The FFN interface, which retailers and fulfillers use to connect their respective systems (ERP system, online store or warehouse management systems), is at the heart of the network. For this reason, the company has tested it extensively in a long beta test. The interface allows smooth and transparent communication between both sides at the official launch of the FFN: All important information is exchanged in near-real time. This means that fulfilment processes can be centralized and automated in one fell swoop using just one platform.

New plugins for third-party provider systems

Thanks to FFN’s open interface structure, any eCommerce software can be integrated. One advantage for fulfillers: historically grown, usually complex and maintenance-intensive interface landscapes can be completely replaced by the FFN’s REST API.

The interface to FFN is integrated as standard in JTL’s free ERP system JTL-Wawi and collaboration between retailers and fulfillers is possible at the touch of a button. Numerous ERP and store systems from popular third-party providers can already be integrated via the JTL-Connector third-party store integration or ready-made plugins. For example, from Plentymarkets, Shopware and CosmoShop.

Use FFN system-independently

Retailers who want to test fulfilment first have an attractive option with the release of FFN, as it can also be used entirely without an ERP or store system. There is a separate area in the portal for the automatic import and export of CSV files for the necessary data exchange. Items, sales orders and deliveries can be created directly in the fulfiller via a web interface.

In order to strengthen this data exchange area and optimize handling for users, the JTL developers have added an import schedule and extended the article import and export with corresponding templates.

“With the JTL-Fulfillment Network, we have created a platform that offers both small and large retailers a simple, cost-effective and low-risk way to have their own warehouse and shipping logistics handled by real professionals,” says JTL Managing Director Thomas Lisson on the occasion of the release. “We know from conversations with brick-and-mortar retailers that they find shipping processes in particular to be complex. Our FFN is intended to help reduce these reservations and pave the way for retailers to successfully enter the world of eCommerce.”