Unpacking the Post-COVID State of Shelf Inventory

‍

COVID-19 has reshaped the retail landscape in ways we never could have predicted. From supply chains thrown into chaos to customer habits changing in the blink of an eye, we've had to learn quickly and adapt even faster. Now, as we find our footing in this new normal, it's time to examine the health of our store shelves, with a special focus on Direct Store Delivery (DSD).

Crunching the Numbers

We took a close look at the state of affairs post-pandemic at Giant Eagle, aiming to assess the impact of supply chain disruptions on DSD. Here's what our investigation revealed:

• Overstocked Shelves – 15%: Overstocking isn't just about wasted space; it's a sign that we're not in sync with consumer demand. This surplus can lead to a chaotic shopping environment and a higher risk of product spoilage, waste, and reduced profitability.

• Out-of-Stock Shelves – 20%: On the other end of the spectrum, our research found empty shelves in plenty. This is a clear red flag, pointing towards gaps in our supply chain. It's a potential customer satisfaction nightmare, with shoppers unable to find what they need and looking elsewhere.
• Layout or Cosmetic Issues – 35%: A whopping third of our shelves had layout or appearance problems. The bottom line is that presentation matters. An aisle that's hard to navigate or unattractive can deter customers, leading to lower sales and impacting overall customer experience.

Turning Things Around

Given these findings, it's time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Here's a roadmap to healthier, more efficient store shelves:

• Make Floor Staff Your Eyes and Ears: Empower your floor staff to take ownership of the shelves. Regular checks can help identify overstocking, understocking, and layout issues early on. This will allow swift corrective action, keeping the shopping environment well-organized and inviting.

• Keep Suppliers in the Loop: Maintain open lines of communication with suppliers. Regular updates about inventory status can help them adjust their delivery schedules and quantities, ensuring a balanced stock level that meets customer demand without leading to overstocking.
• Embrace Data-Driven Inventory Management: Leverage technology for smarter inventory management. Tools harnessing AI and data analytics can predict consumer demand with improved accuracy, optimise inventory levels, and prevent the extremes of overstocking and out-of-stock scenarios. This not only minimizes wastage but also enhances customer satisfaction.
• Prioritize Store Layout and Merchandising: Work closely with suppliers to ensure store shelves are visually appealing and easy to navigate. This involves addressing cosmetic issues, optimizing product placement, and ensuring promotional materials are current and engaging. A well-organized store is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it can boost sales and customer loyalty.

The Road Ahead

In the wake of COVID-19, we've had to rethink and relearn much about retail. As we continue to navigate this recovery, maintaining the health of our store shelves must be a top priority. By implementing these recommendations, we can improve DSD operations, create a seamless shopping experience for customers, and ultimately drive long-term growth and resilience in a post-pandemic world.