Despite the success of specialty shops and boutiques, department stores continue to thrive, and the reason is simple: They offer customers the convenience of shopping for a wide range of products in a single location.

For much the same reason, El Puerto del Liverpool, S.A. de C.V., the largest department store chain in Mexico, recently shopped for a software solution provider, and selected SAP.

Founded in 1847 and headquartered in Mexico City, Liverpool operates 52 department stores nationwide and recorded 2002 sales of US$2 billion. The company’s upscale stores, which operate under the names of Liverpool and Fábricas de Francia, have long enjoyed a reputation for exceptional quality and style. In addition, the company owns and manages shopping mall properties throughout Mexico.