What is ETIM?
ETIM is a system of classification that defines data standards for electrical and electronic products.
For example, once adopted, ETIM will ensure that stock profiles of every GU10 LED contain the same set of information, in the same units of measure, across every supplier, manufacturer and distributor in the UK.
By adopting ETIM, the construction industry can ensure that everyone in the supply chain (including consumers) has access to clear, standardised data, for more accurate, accessible and reliable information across the board.
Why now?
Back in 2016, a survey of Electrical Distributors Association (EDA) member found that 80% of wholesalers said their biggest threat was from new online entrants, with 73% identifying online sales as their biggest growth prospect.
Data held the key to grasping opportunities (and beating the online competition) but at the time of the survey, 68% of members held no enhanced or enriched product info, despite 74% recognising that it helps online trade. Suppliers, too, wanted to see better data in the market, with 93% of manufacturers seeing an increased need for richer, broader data sets.
That survey took place four years before coronavirus struck, driving more transactions online and increasing the need for clear, transparent product information across the industry. Now, more than ever, electrical distributors and builders’ merchants need to ensure that their customers have all of the information they need, in the format they need it, to order online with confidence.
