OTB Retail Systems was formed in 1984 to develop an easy-to-use open-to-buy system for retailers. The system I had developed for my own use in 1970 was refined and expanded so any retailer could use it. Our first issue was a paper based system called THE OTB BOOK and was a step-by-step manual with all the necessary forms to do the setup and calculations necessary to develop an open-to-buy plan. In 1987, we started marketing our software and retained THE OTB BOOK as the name. The software has gone through more changes than I care to think about and was completely rewritten in 2000 and has been refined even more since then. Our current version is very complete and makes developing an OTB plan easier and more accurate than ever before. We guarantee our software, all you have to do is use it and take advantage of the 12/7 free 800 support.
Experience:
Involved in retailing since 1967, Mort Haaz has owned and managed small and large single stores as well as multiple store operations. He has done consulting and currently markets and supports THE OTB BOOK software. Mort writes and confers on articles for trade publications and speaks on open-to-buy planning at various trade shows.
Expertise:
Mort has been speaking on, writing about, and helping retailers with open-to-buy since 1985 when he sold his first system. His main interest is helping retailers. His hope is that enough of them will recognize the value of open-to-buy and the benefits of using his software, but he is satisfied if he can help. His knowledge of all aspects of the retail merchandising process has been offered willingly to retailers who seek his input.
