In a context where stores must ensure operational continuity, efficiency, and cost control, IT asset management becomes a strategic challenge. From maintaining POS terminals to decommissioning network devices, every task requires technical expertise, advanced digital tools, and perfectly coordinated logistics. The Multivendor Service – Borghi Italia group, chaired by Massimo Bartolini, has developed a scalable operational model built on over fifteen years of field experience and a proprietary cloud-based platform—Lambda Virtual Warehouse—which enables retail, banking, and industrial enterprises to maintain full control over their technology assets while optimizing costs, time, and resources. Let’s take a closer look…
by Roberta Imbimbo
Dr. Bartolini, can you tell us how the Multivendor Service group came about and what its scope of action is?
Our group was born from years of experience in the technical and logistical management of technology assets in retail environments, initially in Italy and later in several European countries—particularly France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Our mission is clear: to help retail companies manage their in-store IT assets efficiently, traceably, and innovatively, reducing operational complexity and improving business performance.
What are the main challenges today in managing IT assets in the retail sector?
One of the biggest challenges for a CTO overseeing hundreds of stores is the complexity of managing thousands of devices—POS systems, routers, cash registers, servers, video surveillance systems—often spread across hundreds of locations. These are heterogeneous environments with different technologies and life cycles, which lead to fragmented information, inefficiencies, hidden costs, and operational risks. Without centralized visibility, it’s hard to plan replacements, updates, or timely interventions.
How does Multivendor Service address this complexity?
With a structured approach that integrates expertise, infrastructure, and a proprietary digital platform. At the heart of our offering is Lambda Virtual Warehouse, an advanced cloud-based Warehouse Management System that goes far beyond simple logistics. Lambda is an evolved platform that integrates real-time tracking, process automation, and full accessibility, enabling companies to always know where their assets are, what condition they’re in, and when action is needed. But it doesn’t stop there: Lambda also enables the planning and execution of technological upgrade projects, thanks to structured allocation and deallocation processes developed through over 15 years of hands-on experience. All this is supported by dedicated Project Managers and a nationwide technical and logistics network operating 7 days a week. The results are tangible: up to 70% reduction in inventory time; improved management of replacements and repairs; elimination of “ghost” assets; and smooth integration with existing enterprise systems.
How does Lambda support complex IT projects for retail companies?
Every project—whether it’s a technology rollout, hardware upgrade, or mass replacement—can be planned, tracked, and managed within the Lambda platform. The centralized dashboard allows clients to monitor project progress in real time, view device statuses, involved locations, and receive timely alerts on critical steps. This operational transparency translates into faster decision-making, reduced intervention times, and a significant decrease in errors. Additionally, Lambda integrates with major ERP, ITSM, and asset management systems, ensuring consistent and integrated enterprise-wide visibility. In 2024 alone, we managed over 70 structured projects, installing more than 23,000 servers, desktops, and laptops; 50,000 printing devices; 15,000 networking devices; and 8,000 audiovisual systems.
What role does logistics play in all of this?
Technology alone is not enough—you need smart IT logistics. MVS has a technical and distribution network that enables us to plan and execute interventions across the entire country, seven days a week. In 2024, we managed 91,912 installation orders and processed 489,329 items, ensuring reliable timelines, coordinated interventions, and smooth execution even for the most complex projects. This helps retailers minimize downtime and maintain consistent customer service quality.
Security is a top priority. Lambda is hosted on ISO 27001-certified cloud infrastructures, equipped with advanced encryption, multi-factor authentication, and granular access control. Every operation is tracked and verifiable. Our systems are regularly updated, and we collaborate with cybersecurity specialists to ensure maximum protection for our retail clients’ IT infrastructures.
What is your vision for the future of IT asset management?
The future is data-driven. We are already integrating predictive analytics features that, powered by artificial intelligence, allow us to anticipate malfunctions, proactively plan replacements, and optimize the entire asset lifecycle. We believe in strategic management that combines the power of data with operational simplicity. Lambda will increasingly become a decision-support tool for CIOs, IT Managers, and Executive Management.
What message would you like to share with companies that have not yet digitalized their asset management?
Digitalizing asset management is no longer optional—it’s a must for staying competitive. It means gaining efficiency, reducing waste, anticipating issues, and achieving clear visibility into your technology ecosystem. We don’t just provide solutions—we provide awareness, control, and operational peace of mind. It’s a mindset shift. Our approach is based on empathy: understanding the client’s needs, respecting their history, and guiding them with method and vision toward a more advanced management model. Technology is just a tool—the real value lies in using it to simplify day-to-day store operations, optimize processes, and improve the customer experience. It’s time to digitalize. It’s time to evolve. Because today, digital transformation isn’t just a technology investment—it’s a strategic choice to make every store more efficient, agile, and ready to compete in tomorrow’s market.
