• Services: UI / UX Design & App Development
  • Client: Acile
  • Location: Algeria
  • Completed Date: 20-12-2023
  • Budget $80,000
  • Timeline 7 Months

Project Overview:

Acile is a mobile-first FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) distribution network that brings together wholesalers, retailers, and suppliers on a single digital platform. The app is designed to streamline inventory management, ensure real-time access to pricing and availability, and provide seamless order processing—all within an easy-to-use mobile interface.

With over 10 years of industry expertise embedded in its functionality, Acile modernizes the traditional distribution model by offering on-demand delivery, transparent pricing, and 24/7 operational access. The platform bridges the gap between suppliers and retailers, ensuring that businesses in Algeria can efficiently manage their FMCG inventory, procurement, and distribution processes.

The Problem It Solves:

Challenges in Traditional FMCG Distribution

The FMCG sector relies on speed, accuracy, and efficiency to ensure that products reach retailers and consumers in a timely manner. However, traditional distribution models in Algeria face significant challenges:

  • Manual Order Processing – Many distributors still rely on calls, emails, or in-person orders, leading to inefficiencies and order delays.
  • Lack of Real-Time Inventory Management – Retailers often struggle with stock shortages or overordering due to unclear inventory tracking.
  • Opaque Pricing & Delayed Quoting – Pricing for FMCG products fluctuates frequently, making it difficult for businesses to get instant, transparent price updates.
  • Limited Delivery Tracking – Many businesses lack real-time tracking for shipments, leading to uncertainty about arrival times.
  • Fragmented Communication Between Suppliers & Retailers – There’s no centralized system for seamless supplier-buyer interactions, leading to miscommunications and inefficiencies.

How Acile Solves These Issues

✅ Digitalized FMCG Network – Acile connects wholesalers, retailers, and distributors in one digital platform, reducing inefficiencies.
✅ 24/7 Access to Orders & Inventory – Retailers and distributors can manage stock, place orders, and track deliveries anytime.
✅ Transparent Pricing & Instant Quotes – Real-time dynamic pricing ensures fair and competitive rates for FMCG products.
✅ On-Demand Delivery & Live Tracking – Businesses can track shipments, get estimated arrival times, and manage logistics efficiently.
✅ Integrated Communication Features – The platform enables instant messaging, order updates, and customer support directly within the app.

Design Description:

1. UI/UX Design Strategy

The Acile UI/UX approach was focused on providing an effortless experience for wholesalers, retailers, and suppliers. The design had to be:

  • Simple & Efficient: A clean, intuitive interface allowing users to navigate inventory, orders, and suppliers with minimal effort.
  • Fast & Responsive: Optimized for mobile devices to ensure quick loading times and seamless transactions.
  • Data-Driven & Visual: Integrated with charts, stock level indicators, and real-time analytics to help businesses make informed decisions.
  • Localized for Algeria: Designed with Arabic & French language support, and tailored to local business needs.

2. User Interface (UI) Highlights

📌 Smart Dashboard: Displays order status, low-stock alerts, and recommended products based on purchasing history.
📌 One-Tap Reordering: Businesses can reorder frequently purchased items instantly with a single tap.
📌 Advanced Search & Filtering: Users can quickly search products by category, brand, or supplier, ensuring efficient browsing.
📌 Real-Time Pricing Updates: Ensures transparency in pricing, preventing sudden cost fluctuations from disrupting orders.
📌 Multi-User Access: Different access levels for store managers, suppliers, and finance teams to ensure secure business operations.
📌 Integrated Chat & Notifications: Enables instant communication between suppliers, retailers, and customer support.

3. Core Features

🚀 24/7 Online Ordering System – Retailers can place and manage orders anytime without needing to contact suppliers manually.
📦 Inventory & Stock Management – Automated alerts help businesses track stock levels and prevent shortages.
📊 AI-Powered Demand Forecasting – Uses past order history and analytics to predict future stock requirements.
🔄 Supplier & Retailer Matching – Smart algorithms suggest optimal suppliers based on past purchases and preferences.
📍 Real-Time Delivery Tracking – Businesses receive live updates on shipments, including estimated delivery times.
💳 Secure Digital Payments – Integrated with Stripe, PayPal, and local banking solutions for seamless transactions.
📜 Automated Invoicing & Reports – Businesses get detailed order summaries, tax invoices, and sales reports.

Development Process:

1. Research & Planning (Months 1-2)

  • Conducted market research to understand FMCG distribution challenges in Algeria.
  • Designed user personas, focusing on the needs of wholesalers, suppliers, and retailers.
  • Created wireframes & prototypes to visualize the platform’s key features.

2. UI/UX Design (Months 2-3)

  • Developed high-fidelity prototypes in Figma for user testing.
  • Conducted A/B testing with potential users to refine navigation and workflows.
  • Designed a dark & light mode UI for accessibility and usability.

3. Mobile App Development (Months 3-6)

Frontend Development:
  • Built using React Native to ensure cross-platform compatibility (iOS & Android).
  • Implemented a real-time pricing & stock update system using WebSockets.
  • Integrated a drag-and-drop order management system for easy modifications.
Backend Development:
  • Developed using Node.js & MongoDB for scalability & high-speed data handling.
  • Integrated RESTful APIs & GraphQL for seamless real-time data exchange.
  • Implemented order tracking & live updates using GPS-enabled logistics APIs.
Database & Logistics Integration:
  • Connected with warehouse management systems (WMS) to track inventory in real-time.
  • Integrated with logistics providers for automated order fulfillment and delivery scheduling.
  • Built an AI-driven demand forecasting system to help retailers optimize stock levels.
4. Testing & Optimization (Months 6-7)
  • Conducted end-to-end testing to ensure error-free order processing and payments.
  • Optimized database queries and load balancing for faster response times.
  • Ensured compliance with security standards, including encryption for transactions and user data.

5. Deployment & Post-Launch Support
  • Launched on Google Play Store & Apple App Store with continuous monitoring.
  • Provided 24/7 technical support to ensure a smooth transition for businesses.
  • Rolled out updates based on user feedback, introducing new features & enhancements.

Achievements:

🏆 Revolutionized FMCG Distribution – Acile has become one of Algeria’s leading digital distribution platforms.
📊 10+ Years of Industry Expertise Embedded – The app incorporates best practices from a decade of FMCG distribution experience.
📱 24/7 Accessibility – Businesses can place and track orders anytime, anywhere.
📦 Seamless Inventory Management – Automated stock tracking reduces shortages and overstocking.
📍 Fast & Transparent Delivery System – Retailers can now track shipments in real-time, improving planning.
💰 Competitive & Transparent Pricing – Helps retailers make better purchasing decisions with up-to-date market prices.
🚀 High User Satisfaction – Acile has received positive feedback for its ease of use, efficiency, and reliability.

Acile is transforming FMCG distribution in Algeria by bridging the gap between wholesalers, suppliers, and retailers—making operations faster, smarter, and more reliable. 🎉📦📱