Haggen Leverages BPM Software for HR

Regional independent Haggen, Inc. has selected new hiring software to update and streamline its employee onboarding process.

The grocer is using San Diego-based BP Logix’s Process Director solution for Haggen new hires and rehires, as well as for automating processes within IT.

Based on the successful automation of other processes within Haggen, the HR department decided to replace its manual, paper-based system with an electronic system. The new system was expected to be significantly faster, less error-prone and more efficient.

Haggen has historically offered its customers a number of firsts -- from the first FTD Floral Department in a U.S. grocery store in 1979 to the first U.S. grocery store offering in-store Starbucks in 1989. The Comvest Group, a private investment firm that provides equity capital to mid-market companies, recently acquired a majority ownership position in Haggen, Inc. Comvest has invested more than $2 billion of capital in over 200 public and private companies since 1988.

With legal documents, union documents and payroll information forming the basis for its onboarding process, a streamlined electronic workflow and approval process was important to Comvest and Haggen.

"Our IT group introduced us to Process Director, however the decision for HR to implement Process Director was a business decision," stated Lisa Hill, senior HR generalist. "Haggen already had a relationship with BP Logix, and Comvest wanted to employ technology that would make us more efficient, so HR's relationship with BP Logix was instantaneous. Understanding how you work and having you understand how we work made that an easy decision – and a fast implementation.”

Beginning by developing their Hiring Workflow, HR defined a process for both new hires and rehires as well as status changes ranging from promotions and merit raises to movement from one store to another. The initial process took about 20 days and went live in February. The process is currently being rolled out throughout all of its stores.

"We have already seen a reduction in the number of documents and the quantity of paper that goes into the onboarding packet,” said Hill. “That means both our orientation process and first workday are becoming more efficient. In addition, because the forms appear similar to what employees have seen in paper form, familiarity has made it easier for employees to embrace the new system."

Founded in 1933, Haggen Food & Pharmacy is the Northwest's largest independent grocer and one of the nation's 75 largest grocery chains. The company currently operates 28 supermarkets under the Haggen Food & Pharmacy and TOP Food & Drug names and employs almost 3,000 people. In 1979, the flagship store in Bellingham, Washington was expanded to over 40,000 square feet, creating the chain's first superstore format. In 1982, the TOP Food and Drug division was created.