Standard Chartered and Transcom Beverages co-create first ever real-time collection solution for FMCG industry 

Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Transcom Beverages Limited (TBL) recently launched the first ever digital collection solution with real-time reconciliation via Application Programming Interface (API) integration for the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry. 

This newly implemented digital platform will enable manufacturers to conveniently collect and reconcile funds from distributors with ease. The solution will also ensure a shorter turnaround time for distributors, reads a press release.

By leveraging the bank's Virtual Account for Collection solution with API connectivity, TBL can now access detailed information about payments made by their distributors and use this data to automatically complete the reconciliation process. This real-time solution eliminates manual data entry delays and errors. With the newly implemented solution, Transcom Beverages Limited will also experience enhanced data security, better operational risk management, and a major efficiency boost.

Transcom Beverages Limited signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Standard Chartered Bangladesh at the bank's head office. 

Luthful Arefin Khan, head of Transaction Banking, Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Mohammed Ismail, chief financial officer of Transcom Beverages Limited signed the document on behalf of their companies. 

Enamul Huque, managing director, head of Client Coverage, Corporate, Commercial & Institutional Banking, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Digital solutions, simpler processes, and a concentrated effort on driving efficiency are all key parts of catalysing economic growth in Bangladesh. Our Virtual Account for Collection solution with API connectivity has had a notable impact across various industries, and we are happy to help bring new benefits to the FMCG industry. We are proud to partner with Transcom Beverages Limited, who are eager to adopt innovative solutions and are committed to working with the Bank to drive automation and efficiency."

Kamrul Hassan, group chief financial officer of Transcom Group, said, "It is indeed a much-needed automation in this time and age. The solution has simplified our process, ensured error free and real-time reflection of customer ledger, enabled faster customer service, and minimised human effort. With this digitalisation, we are now able to serve our customers 4-5 hours earlier than before."

The newly launched Virtual Account for Collection solution with API connectivity provides each TBL distributor with a unique virtual account, allowing them to make payments seamlessly from their respective bank accounts via the use of any available digital channels (including ACH/BEFTN, RTGS, and IBFT). 

The implementation of this solution removes the need for any manual intervention on TBL's side. All banking information is automatically made available to Transcom Beverages Limited's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This real-time fund deposit solution enables TBL to embrace and drive forward automation, digitalisation, and greater efficiency in collaboration with the Bank.

With over 117 years of uninterrupted presence in the nation, Standard Chartered Bangladesh is the only multinational universal Bank in Bangladesh. As the nation's longstanding partner in progress, Standard Chartered is facilitating major investments in power, energy, transportation, and urban development. 

The bank accounts for a major share of all export and import financing, as well as power generation financing and SME lending by foreign banks. At the same time, the Bank commands a leading position in the retail finance space. Standard Chartered's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's continued journey of prosperity even in the face of a global pandemic saw the bank secure over 30 major international awards in 2021.

Transcom Beverages Limited (TBL) is a market leader in Bangladesh's beverage industry and is the exclusive PepsiCo franchisee for Bangladesh. Transcom Beverages Limited has a manufacturing presence  in Dhaka and Chittagong, and products are sold nationwide. Transcom Beverages Limited has been awarded with several national and international recognitions.