Gtech’s patented process delivers new retailer convenience

As a worldwide supplier of software, hardware, and professional services to more than 340 companies and approximately 29,000 retail locations, PDI deploys its PDI/Store Assistant product to improve operating efficiencies for its customers. Gtech's instant-ticket tracking solution is a natural fit to broaden the scope of automation currently provided by the PDI/Store Assistant's lottery features. Fully automating inventory tracking for scratch-off (instant) lottery tickets is a testament to its commitment to continually improving lottery product management for its retail partners.

"Retailers are the foundation of our lottery business. We work closely with our customers and the retail industry to find new ways to manage and streamline lottery inventory processes for the benefit and convenience of our retailers. The Gtech/PDI solution is an example of this continued commitment to our retail partners," said Connie Laverty O'Connor, Gtech Chief Marketing Officer.

Under the agreement, PDI's customers will be able to utilize the PDI/Store Assistant Lottery Module to scan serialized bar codes found on instant tickets to easily capture and reconcile information using in-store point-of-sale devices.

"We are very pleased with our new relationship with Gtech. Lottery is an important revenue generator for many of our customers," said Paula Conti, PDI VP of Customer Service. "Access to this technology improves overall lottery inventory control and loss prevention through automation, which is what doing business electronically is all about."

Conti also serves as the Committee Chairperson for the Petroleum Convenience Alliance for Technology Standards (PCATS) EB2B Lottery Working Group. PCATS is a non-profit organization focused on the development, maintenance, and implementation of standards, education, and best practices for the convenience store and petroleum retail segments.

The new process saves time and significantly decreases the opportunity for human error. Donna Perkins, Pricebook Manager for PDI customer E-Z Stop Food Marts, and an active member of the PCATS Lottery Working Group, says it's a much-needed advancement for lottery inventory management. "The enhanced lottery scanning feature is definitely a welcomed change," she said. "The GTECH/PDI collaboration is just another example of how technology is being used to create efficiencies for our businesses and move the c-store industry forward."

As a long-time member of the PCATS Lottery Working Group, Jim Breindel, Gtech Senior Manager of Retail Development, said, "Gtech is completely committed to helping retailers manage the work associated with selling instant tickets. The addition of this functionality to the PDI/Store Assistant Lottery Module provides retailers a simple solution that manages the current operational challenges presented by instant ticket inventory control and addresses the issue of lottery ticket theft."