Retail and CPG companies have challenges with inventory uncertainties and workforce shortages driven by supply disruptions, inflation, low unemployment, and shifting consumer demand. Yet to improve productivity and results, two words are often thrown out as the solution: Automation & Insights. But they often ring hallow.
Recent Posts by Mark Schwans
Why Today’s Challenges are Fueling Labor Productivity Growth
on April 21, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
It's time for some good news. Labor productivity grew by 2.2% annually between 2020 and 2021, up from a 0.9% average annual growth from 2011 to 2019. Before attributing this to people working more hours, labor productivity is measured as the output per worker hour. Hence, people are becoming more efficient.
How to Evaluate an AI Demand Forecasting & Planning Solution
on March 10, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
AI Demand Forecasting & Planning solutions are redefining traditional practices. They're improving inventory placement and reducing overall inventory costs, returns, and markdowns. Already prominent retailers such as Walgreens and PACSUN are reaping the benefits of these solutions. But not all solutions are created equally, and people struggle to evaluate them. Many advocate pilots, and while that is a viable option, even free pilots cost your company time and resources. Pilot or not, you need methods to down-select solution providers.
Inflation and Transportation Costs May Have Peaked, but their Impact Remains
on February 9, 2022
| By Mark Schwans
An extensive amount of news today focuses on inflation and supply chain disruptions. The latest Survey of Consumers focused on inflation's impact to consumer sentiment, which fell to its lowest level since November 2011. While the Delta and Omicron variants have pushed the index lower, consumers' primary concern is rising inflation and falling real incomes.1
There will Never be a Better Time for Systemic Promotional Changes
on June 23, 2021
| By Mark Schwans
Any post-crisis (or even mid-crisis) is the best time for new opportunities, offering a clean slate for growth and rebirth. For years, promotional ineptitude has been well documented – with Nielsen publishing that 2/3 of promotions fail. Confirmed by study after study that would show anywhere between 80-90% of them don’t unleash additional revenue or margin. Even with that knowledge, the allure of trade dollars, and the risk of dramatic change, compelled most to stay the course and continue to invest in bad promotions. That’s now changed.