Mitko Topalov: Our experience is our best guide for navigating change

ASBIS operates in a highly competitive, fast-growing, and dynamic market. In such an environment, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest changes, be adaptable, and proficient at identifying trends. ASBIS has excelled in these aspects, as reflected in its strong performance. Mitko Topalov, the General Manager at ASBIS Bulgaria, shared the recipes for success in the annual technology almanac Digitalk. His insights not only enable the company to adapt to various situations and challenges but also to maintain a leading position in a constantly evolving market.

ASBIS is a distributor operating in various segments of the tech market, where trends, challenges, and opportunities constantly evolve. For instance, currently, the PC industry is experiencing two conflicting trends. On one hand, there is a noticeable increase in demand for components like HDD, SSD, and memory, and forecasts suggest a continued rise in NAND flash memory prices. There is also a growing interest in graphics chips, particularly those used in artificial intelligence applications. However, potential delays or shortages of chips in the coming months are a possibility. On the other hand, there is significant price pressure in the market due to declining demand for computers in both the European and Bulgarian markets. These opposing trends present a dynamic and challenging landscape for companies operating in this sector.

In these constantly changing conditions, our advantages as a distributor are as follows:

• We serve as the vital link between manufacturers and the market, providing partners with reliable information, competent support, and secure goods and services.
• Our distribution center in Prague, along with our local warehouse, allows us to maintain a wide range of products for our customers, accessible through our B2B store with a delivery time of just a few days.
• Over the years, we have developed an efficient system for managing warehouse stocks and supply chains, utilizing key performance indicators to optimize our inventory based on market demand. We also employ a methodology based on the theory of constraints to manage our stocks and financial resources.
• We recognize the importance of automation in the modern business environment and actively utilize financial and software tools to optimize company processes and collaboration with partners.
• We provide our clients with insurance and a credit line tailored to the volumes they sell and the type of business they focus on.
• Our suite of benefits encompasses a truly one-of-a-kind product designed primarily for partners managing a large number of stores that require consistent oversight of sales and stock replenishment. We are referring to PSI (Purchase, Sales and Inventory) stock and warehouse management tailored to sales in each store based on the specific partner’s established performance indicators. In conjunction with PSI, we actively utilize Collaborative Planning, Forecasting and Replenishment (CPFR) – a collection of practices for joint supply planning, sales forecasting, and stock replenishment. All of this is integrated into our ERP system, with proven benefits for partners including sales growth, cost reduction, and optimization of cash flow.
• An equally crucial component that remains perpetually significant is our team. They are our most valuable asset, and we take immense pride in our people. We prioritize fostering a content, motivated, and secure environment for our employees. We continuously work on enhancing their skills and expertise, promoting stronger connections, and instilling dedication and empathy. This approach ensures the best outcomes and sustains strong relationships with partners and suppliers. Almost half of our employees have over a decade of experience with the company, and we are also committed to identifying young talents to enhance service quality and innovation.

To explore further benefits of partnering with ASBIS, please visit our website https://www.asbis.com/

The complete interview is available in Digitalk