Super Retail Group Poised to Revamp Payroll and Introduce New HR System

Quick Overview: Essential Insights

• Super Retail Group, the parent company of Supercheap Auto, Macpac, and BCF, is set to update its outdated payroll system.
• A new Human Resources Information Management (HRIM) system will be introduced in the coming year.
• This effort is part of a larger $29 million investment, which also funds a new distribution center in Truganina, Victoria.
• The Truganina site will replace two existing centers and is being enhanced for advanced automation.
• The transition to the new center will be executed in phases, with completion expected in FY26.

Super Retail Group Upgrades Payroll and HR Systems

Super Retail Group — the owner of well-known Australian retail brands like Supercheap Auto, Macpac, and BCF — has revealed plans for a significant upgrade to its internal systems. Within the next 12 months, the group will replace its outdated payroll system and launch a new Human Resources Information Management (HRIM) platform. This strategic decision aims to enhance workforce management, operational efficiency, and compliance for its extensive workforce of over 13,000 staff members.

Project Details and Strategic Commitment

This technological upgrade is part of a larger $29 million investment that encompasses ongoing operational costs associated with Super Retail Group’s new distribution center in Victoria. The company has not provided a specific breakdown of costs between the HRIM platform and the logistics center, but the joint initiative signifies a major digital and infrastructural overhaul.

The HRIM system will aim to optimize HR processes, ranging from payroll and leave management to talent acquisition and employee engagement. It will likely feature cloud-based solutions, automated workflows, and integration with other enterprise software such as ERP and finance systems.

New Distribution Hub in Truganina in Progress

The investment in new technological systems aligns with the development of a state-of-the-art distribution hub situated in Truganina, located in the outer western suburbs of Melbourne. Initially announced in the company’s FY23 results, the facility is intended to replace two of Super Retail Group’s older distribution centers in the area.

The Truganina hub is currently being equipped with plans to incorporate automation technologies for improved speed and efficiency in order fulfillment. The transition to this new facility is planned in phased stages, with full operations expected by FY26.

Why the Timing for Change?

As complexities in workforce management escalate, particularly in retail operations that span various states and employment frameworks (casual, part-time, full-time), outdated payroll systems present significant risks. These risks include compliance violations, payroll errors, and limited scalability.

In Australia, there has been increased scrutiny of payroll practices over recent years, with several major retailers facing penalties and reputational harm due to underpayment controversies. Through upgrading its HR systems, Super Retail Group seeks to alleviate such risks while equipping its HR teams with modern tools for better management of employee lifecycles.

Conclusion

Super Retail Group’s revamp of its payroll and HRIM systems, supported by a substantial $29 million investment, signifies a strategic pivot towards digital and operational excellence. This transformation complements the group’s logistics enhancement via the new Truganina distribution hub, positioning the organization for greater efficiency, improved compliance, and scalable growth. As Australian retailers modernize their infrastructure in response to regulatory and market demands, Super Retail Group’s initiative highlights the necessity of proactive technological investments in the retail industry.

Common Questions

Q: Why is Super Retail Group updating its payroll system?

A:

The existing payroll system is nearing its end-of-life and is inadequate in meeting the company’s operational and compliance standards. The upgrade aims to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability in managing workforce operations.

Q: What is an HRIM system, and what advantages will it bring to Super Retail Group?

A:

A Human Resources Information Management (HRIM) system centralizes HR functionalities such as payroll, hiring, performance management, and employee records. For Super Retail Group, this translates to streamlined processes, improved data insights, and enhanced compliance capabilities.

Q: How much is Super Retail Group investing in this transformation?

A:

The company is dedicating $29 million to cover the upgrades for both the HRIM and payroll systems, in addition to operational expenses related to the new Truganina distribution facility.

Q: Which brands are under the Super Retail Group umbrella?

A:

Super Retail Group encompasses well-known Australian retail brands such as Supercheap Auto, Macpac, Boating Camping Fishing (BCF), and Rebel Sport.

Q: What distinguishes the new Truganina distribution center?

A:

The Truganina facility represents a next-generation distribution hub designed to succeed two outdated centers. It will integrate automation technologies and is expected to enhance logistics and fulfillment processes, with full operations anticipated by the end of FY26.

Q: Will the payroll and HRIM upgrades have an impact on store employees?

A:

Although the changes pertain primarily to operational and backend aspects, store employees may enjoy benefits such as quicker payroll processing, enhanced access to HR services, and improved support for leave and entitlements.

Q: When is the new HRIM system expected to be implemented?

A:

The rollout is anticipated to occur over the next 12 months, with complete implementation expected by mid to late 2025, contingent on internal testing and integration timelines.

Q: Where can I find more updates regarding these projects?

A:

For ongoing updates on Super Retail Group’s technology and infrastructure initiatives, please visit TechBest at techbest.com.au.