Metalcenter – A Digital Marketplace for the Metal Industry

The goal was to establish an online platform which would act as a centralized marketplace where suppliers could connect with buyers more effectively. A solution was envisioned which would enable users to browse product catalogs and search for companies and implement a unique quote request system that lets users present their shopping carts to multiple suppliers.

The challenge involved developing this concept into a user-friendly, industry-aware and scalable digital product that could replicate the complex operations of the metal trading ecosystem since most of these operations took place offline or through personal networks.

Cheppers’s Solution

Cheppers accepted the responsibility of designing the User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) for the project. We worked closely with the Metalcenter team - because they possessed extensive industry knowledge -through interview sessions and continuous consultation to develop the platform. We implemented an ongoing process of design adjustment through continuous testing and feedback integration.

The platform features multiple essential elements which include:

• Product Catalog: A well-structured and searchable catalog that enables users to locate the metal materials they require easily.
• Company Directory: Users can search a comprehensive directory of metal industry companies to discover and connect with potential suppliers or business partners.
• Custom Quote Request: Users benefit from the ability to request quotes from multiple suppliers simultaneously through their custom-filled cart which brings competitive advantage to their procurement process.
• Modern, Responsive UI: The platform features a mobile-friendly design and intuitive B2B interface which serves the needs of the metal sector users.

We focused on creating an interface that matched the particular workflow patterns of the industry while ensuring usability and clarity. Our design approach created an efficient experience which functions well for standard customers and suppliers while managing complex elements with straightforward functionality.

Results and Impact

The new Metalcenter platform has become a forward-thinking digital solution for a traditionally offline industry. It made procurement easier while simplifying supplier discovery and introduced transparency and competitiveness to the metal trade.

The customized quote request tool let buyers acquire several offers at once thus improving their sourcing efficiency and shortening their purchasing schedules. The searchable company directory enabled new business connections which brought forth opportunities that were previously inaccessible.

The platform’s modern navigation system together with its responsive interface has led to better user engagement and adoption. Metalcenter established a digital sales channel which operates alongside traditional methods thus making the company a leader in B2B metal trading innovation.

The project demonstrates how B2B businesses in specific sectors can implement digital transformation while maintaining their distinctive operational logic. The partnership between Cheppers and Metalcenter led to the conversion of industrial expertise into a contemporary competitive marketplace platform.