Looking ahead to 2025 retail trends, the retail sector is on the edge of something big, a revolution, to be exact. Nowadays, retailers aren't just dealing with a super competitive market; they're also trying to keep up with what shoppers want, which changes by the minute. At the heart of tackling these challenges is the smart use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Using the right ERP system to transform the customer experience is very crucial to any retail business’s success.

5 Retail Business Transformation Trends in 2025

The retail industry is set for a major transformation driven by digital innovation and evolving consumer expectations. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, compelling retailers to overhaul their operations and embrace new business models. As a result, 5 key trends are emerging that will significantly shape the future of retail in 2025.

• Rise of subconscious commerce, where predictive analytics and hyper-personalisation anticipate consumer needs
• The need for more resilient and flexible supply chains
• The development of multimedia storefronts to create seamless customer experiences
• The adoption of circular retail practices focused on sustainability
• The evolution towards ethical, collaborative ecosystems

In line with these trends, retail ERP systems play a crucial role in personalising customer interactions, optimising sales strategies, and leveraging data analytics to meet evolving consumer demands. In this blog, we dive into how ERP systems can help retailers navigate these emerging trends effectively, ensuring they are well-equipped for the future.

The Heart of Modern Retail: Personalising Customer Interactions

The retail environment has dramatically shifted towards a customer-centric model, where success hinges on the ability to offer personalised experiences. Retail ERP systems like Merret Pro are pivotal in this transition, providing retailers with valuable insights that are crucial for understanding customer behaviour and preferences.

These insights empower retailers to make data-driven decisions. By leveraging data, retailers can better understand the customer journey, tailor their marketing messages, offer targeted product recommendations, and customise shopping experiences. Creating bespoke shopping journeys in this way personalises every customer interaction, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Unlocking Retail Excellence Through ERP-Enhanced Sales Strategies

Achieving retail dominance today requires more than just a good sales strategy; it needs a transformative ERP system like Merret Pro. ERPs offer a 360-degree view of the retail ecosystem, detailing everything from inventory levels to consumer behaviour and emerging sales trends. With a single version of truth, you can use ERP data to sharpen demand forecasting, tighten inventory control, and support a seamless omnichannel strategy—all crucial for boosting sales performance and profitability.

The right ERP system turns pricing and promotion management into a precise science, enabling retailers stay in sync with market shifts, meeting consumer demand and capturing peak profitability. To dominate the retail game, consider an ERP system as your MVP, ensuring every move leads to ultimate retail success.

Driving Adaptation Through Advanced Data Analytics

At the core of ERP’s is its robust data, acting as the retailer’s crystal ball into consumer wants and needs. This capability offers retailers a golden opportunity to evolve products and services in sync with consumer demands and market shifts.

Integrating ERP systems with technologies like AI and IoT elevates their analytical prowess. Harnessing AI’s predictive analytics allows retailers to forecast sales and purchasing trends, enabling them to capitalise on inventory and promotional strategies with newfound foresight. This alignment boosts customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and overall business performance by reducing waste and improving resource allocation, response times, and decision-making. The marriage of ERP with advanced analytics now allows retailers to adapt and act in ways that meet and anticipate evolving consumer landscapes.

Challenges and Considerations

While the journey towards implementing an ERP system is filled with the promise of transforming operations and scaling efficiency, it's important for retailers to navigate this path with their eyes open to potential challenges and key considerations.

Retailers face constraints such as the financial investment required, the complexity of data migration, and the necessity for ongoing staff training. Moreover, data security emerges as a crucial consideration in an age where consumer data protection is very important.

Navigating these challenges requires careful planning, thorough research, and a strategic approach to implementation. Selecting the right ERP system doesn’t need to be a complicated process. Here is your answer: It's not about picking the most popular or best looking platform but finding the one that aligns with your specific business needs, size, customer base, and fits your budget. The chosen system should not only meet current operational requirements but also have the scalability and flexibility to support future growth and technological advancements.

Retail Assist can help you identify and integrate the most suitable ERP solution that not only aligns with your current operational needs but also sets the foundation for future scalability and business growth. You can talk to one of our solutions officers.

Looking Ahead

It’s undeniable that ERP systems are gateways to a transformative future in retail. They're about more than just keeping up—they're about setting the stage for personalised shopping experiences, smarter sales tactics, and sharp, data-informed decisions. So, as we edge closer to the retail revolution of 2025, remember: now's the moment to step up and embrace change. Think of this as your nudge to start exploring how ERP systems like Merret Pro that can reshape your customer experience, as “it all starts with thinking!”

If you want to explore how Merret Pro can help you transform your customer experience in 2025 then talk to us!

The post Top 5 Retail Trends in 2025 and How To Navigate Them? appeared first on Retail Assist.

We're excited to announce that Retail Assist will once again be exhibiting our managed services and solutions at the Retail Technology Show 2024! After a successful showcase last year, we're back on 24^th-25^th April 2024 to connect, collaborate, and share insights with retail leaders and industry experts and to explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of retail.

Find us at stand 5F25, where you can explore our cutting-edge managed services and software solutions designed to address the evolving challenges in the retail landscape. Whether you're looking to streamline operations or enhance customer experiences, our team will be on hand to discuss how we empower retailers to achieve success in an ever-changing market.

Why should you attend?

• Discover the latest trends and innovations in the retail industry
• Network with industry experts and leaders
• Explore a wide range of solutions and services from leading technology providers
• And of course, stop by our stand for a chat and a sweet treat!

Take a look back at our highlights from last year’s event here.

Book your place now!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to revolutionise your retail strategy and connect with the best in the business. Secure your spot over at the Retail Technology Show 2024 website.

Stay tuned for more updates on what we have in store for the Retail Technology Show 2024!

The post Retail Assist Returns to The Retail Technology Show 2024! appeared first on Retail Assist.

As we wave goodbye to 2023, it’s always nice to look back on everything that we’ve achieved this year alongside all of the moments that we celebrated as a team. So, buckle up and get ready for a trip down memory lane as we recap the memorable moments of 2023.

January: 2023 Trends

We kicked off the year by setting ourselves up with some trend analysis. Looking at the biggest retail trends that would set the tone for the year, with 82% of businesses planning significant growth with a focus on technology. Our good friends over at Datitude highlighted the importance of omnichannel commerce, supply chain resilience, data-driven strategies and ESG (environmental, social and governance) in our guest blog.

February: We Welcomed Phase Eight and Hobbs

We welcomed two new brands, Hobbs and Phase Eight, part of TFG Brands (London) Ltd. The two premium womenswear brands are now supported with our 1st Line Help Desk service, acting as a single point of contact for 266 stores across the UK.

Alex Priscott, Chief Technology Officer at TFG commented: “Our long-standing relationship with Retail Assist means that they thoroughly understood our support needs, offering a seamless service transition. The biggest challenge was the compressed timeline, we needed the service to be live in time for the Christmas period to minimise disruption to the business at our busiest time. They managed to deliver the service in a tight 5 weeks, which was outstanding.

March: We Made the Retail Systems Shortlist

In March, we made the shortlist for the Retail Systems Awards in the category of Omnichannel Technology Vendor of the Year for our solution, Merret. We later went on to celebrate at the awards dinner in June with our customer Mint Velvet. 

April: Retail Technology Show 2023

We exhibited at this year’s Retail Technology Show at Olympia. Our team spent two days rushed off of their feet catching up with and meeting new partners, customers, and prospects to discuss the latest retail tech trends. We’ll have an even bigger stand at 2024’s Retail Technology Show, so keep your eyes peeled for updates and more information coming soon!

May: Top Five Helpdesk Stats

In May we released our annual benchmarks for our helpdesk, detailing our key statistics from 2022. We’re proud to highlight our headline stats:

• 2,855 sites supported
• 7,870 tills supported
• 23.79s average speed of answer
• 8,334 calls supported each month with only a 2.78% abandon rate
• 96.21% of service level agreements are achieved each month

June: We turned 24!

To mark this special occasion, we gathered in our Nottingham Head Office for lots of cake and a reflection on everything we’ve been up to over the last 24 years, including some early 2000’s throwbacks!

July: We Released Our Merret Pro Video

Successfully managing a retail supply chain can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and software, it becomes a seamless process. Meet Merret Pro, the ultimate retail ERP software solution designed to revolutionise your operations. With a comprehensive range of features and integrations, Merret Pro empowers retailers to meet the demands of modern commerce while ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and profitability.

Watch the video on YouTube

August: We Celebrated 20 Years of Vue Entertainment

We are proud to have been part of the Vue Entertainment support network for more than half of their existence. To celebrate, we joined the Vue team for an early viewing of the new Mission Impossible film and fascinating presentation by Tim Richards, their Founder and CEO.

September: Client Summit 2023

If you didn’t hear about our Client Summit, where were you!? The Retail Assist Client Summit 2023 brought together industry leaders and experts from the retail technology sector. The summit’s theme, “Doing More with Less: Navigating the Balance of Growth and Efficiency,” aimed to explore innovative strategies and solutions to help businesses thrive in today’s evolving landscape.

October: Service Desk Institute Awards

We were named a finalist for Managed Service Provider of the Year at this years’ Service Desk Institute Awards. We are incredibly honoured to be recognised as a top finalist among a highly competitive field. As part of our entry for the awards, we showcased the vibrant and dynamic culture of our help desk team with a parody music video of Rick Astley’s iconic hit “Never Gonna Give You Up.”

Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

November: itSMF Professional Service Management Awards

We are so proud of our Customer Assurance team for being named a finalist for ‘IT Team of the Year’ at the itSMF Professional Service Management Awards. They have been instrumental in maintaining best practices, continuously improving the customer experience, and going above and beyond the standard service delivery norms. Through proactive assessment of internal processes and incorporating external feedback, the team has identified opportunities for enhancement and achieved increased operational efficiency.

December: Unlocking Success in the Cosmetic Industry with Laser Clinics UK

In December, we released our case study detailing the rapid expansion of Laser Clinics UK. Interested in uncovering the strategies and approaches that contributed to Laser Clinics UK’s success story? Download the full case study to gain valuable insights and learn how Retail Assist’s partnership played a critical role in supporting Laser Clinics UK’s growth strategy.

Thank you!

What a year! Thank you to all our colleagues, customers, suppliers and partners for your support, hard work and collaboration this year.

As we head into 25 years of Retail Assist, we’re so excited for the year ahead and cannot wait to share what we have in the pipeline for what is set to be our biggest year yet.

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year from all of the team at Retail Assist!

The post 2023 In Review: Here’s What We Got Up To appeared first on Retail Assist.

Successfully managing a retail supply chain can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and software, it becomes a seamless process. Meet Merret Pro, the ultimate retail ERP software solution designed to revolutionise your operations. With a comprehensive range of features and integrations, Merret Pro empowers retailers to meet the demands of modern commerce while ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and profitability.

Watch the video on YouTube

Efficiency and Visibility

Merret Pro is designed with retailers, for retailers. It addresses the pain points of inventory management, logistics, and data overload by providing unparalleled visibility across your entire supply chain. With Merret Pro, you can say goodbye to inefficient inventory management and logistical headaches. Instead, you can access real-time data and accurate forecasting, allowing you to make informed decisions and optimise your operations.

Seamless Integration

Merret Pro offers over 190 integrations and 60+ direct APIs, seamlessly connecting with leading third-party systems to provide a complete retail solution. Whether it's e-commerce platforms, customer engagement solutions, fulfilment partners, marketplaces, or business intelligence tools, Merret Pro has you covered. This extensive integration capability ensures that you can streamline your operations by leveraging existing systems and tools that work best for your business.

Optimised Inventory Management

With Merret Pro's real-time inventory data, you can ensure that the right products are available in the right place at the right time. This minimises out-of-stock situations, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. Intelligent algorithms within Merret Pro facilitate automatic stock movement between distribution centers and stores, optimising replenishment and reducing markdowns. The result? Higher sales and improved profitability, making both your customers and your bottom line happy.

Effortless Purchase Order Management

Managing purchase orders becomes a breeze with Merret Pro. From raising purchase orders to flexible PO management, the software simplifies the entire process. Customisable safeguards, automatic calculation of freight and duty, and integration with major providers enhance accuracy and efficiency. With Merret Pro, you can streamline your purchase order management and focus on growing your business.

Dynamic Pricing and Promotions

Pricing can be a challenging aspect of retail, but Merret Pro has you covered. The software enables dynamic pricing and promotions, allowing you to identify the perfect time for markdowns or promotional discounts. This data-driven approach maximizes full-price sales while improving margin control, helping you achieve optimal profitability.

Efficiency in Warehouse Operations

Merret Pro's Warehouse Management System (WMS) streamlines warehouse operations, reducing errors and increasing efficiency. With comprehensive tools to manage inventory, movements, and pick accuracy, you gain real-time visibility and control over your warehouse operations. The system includes features such as full audit and ad-hoc stock checking, pick accuracy checking, and a fully integrated supplier management system. With Merret Pro, your warehouse becomes a well-oiled machine, ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Customisation and Flexibility

Merret Pro understands that every business is unique. Therefore, the software can be fully customised to suit your specific needs. With a wide range of integrations and APIs into best-of-breed third-party systems such as e-commerce platforms, payment gateways, and point-of-sale systems, you can tailor Merret Pro to align perfectly with your existing infrastructure. Additionally, Merret Pro offers various configuration options, providing the flexibility you need to optimise your retail operations.

Merret Pro is the game-changing retail ERP software solution you've been waiting for. With its extensive feature set, seamless integrations, and customisation options, it empowers retailers to streamline their supply chain, maximize efficiency, and boost profitability. Don't let the challenges of retail supply chain management hold you back—contact us today to learn more about how Merret Pro can revolutionise your operations.

The post Streamline Your Supply Chain with Merret Pro: The Ultimate Retail ERP Solution appeared first on Retail Assist.

The world of retail is uniting again this April. Will you be joining us?

Tap into the future of retail, explore the latest technology, and meet the people who make it happen at Retail Technology Show 2023, London Olympia on 26^th and 27^th April.

What’s on?

This year you’ll get to hear from BBC Dragon Steven Bartlett, TV’s Jake Humphrey, Queen of Shops Mary Portas and, well, us!

Visit Retail Assist’s stand 6K22 to see our services and solutions in action. Our team will be on hand to chat through the future retail landscape and how to navigate it. From POS implementations to 24 x 7 IT support, warehouse and merchandise management to site openings, we offer the full range of services to suit the future needs of retail.

Who will be attending?

Stuart Baker Senior Business & Solution Consultant	Danielle Bamra Client Account Manager	Kieran Bowden Chief Commercial Officer	Jordon Graham Digital Marketing Manager	Kevin Greathead Managing Director	Roland Kendall Chief Solutions Officer

Andy McQueen Technical Services Manager	Michelle Nickson Business Development Manager	George Odams Client Account Manager	Jahmel Russell Client Account Manager	Andrea Williams Head of Marketing

Where can you find us?

You’ll find us at stand 6K22, on the walkway between the National Hall and the Grand Hall.

What to expect?

The Retail Technology Show brings together Europe’s most forward-thinking retailers and leading tech innovators under one roof. From inspirational keynotes, retail experts, groundbreaking success stories, through to retail’s leading suppliers showcasing the latest tech and digital solutions for in-store, online, and omnichannel retail. The show will make sure you are up-to-date with fast-moving industry trends and hear inspiration, future thinking and practical advice from the innovators driving things forward.

Check out our highlights from 2022 to get an idea of what you can expect from this year’s show.

Watch the video on YouTube

Want to talk through any opportunities and challenges you are currently facing?

Book a slot with one of our experts for a coffee and a retail tech chat.

Yet to sign-up? Get your golden ticket to retail’s flagship event here.

The post Retail Technology Show 2023: Will You Be There? appeared first on Retail Assist.

Accuracy and efficiency are the biggest goals in any warehouse operation, so when a new technology is on the rise and helping to achieve optimum productivity, you’ve got our attention. This week we’re looking at voice picking solutions.

What is voice picking?

Voice picking technology is revolutionising the way warehouses and distribution centres operate. It is an automated solution that uses voice recognition to help pickers complete their tasks and ensure accuracy, speed, and efficiency in the order pick process.

The technology eliminates the need for paper-based processes by using verbal commands instead. This helps to improve accuracy with no room for mistakes due to misreading orders or illegible handwriting. Additionally, it helps to reduce labour costs since many manual steps can be eliminated through automation.

How does voice picking work?

The voice picking system works by connecting a wearable headset device with a speech-recognition system that reads the picker’s commands. The headset allows the picker to communicate directly with their warehouse management system (WMS) via voice commands so that they can easily locate items and complete orders more efficiently. The WMS then sends verbal instructions back to the picker through the headset so that they can carry out their task correctly.

What do you need to implement it?

In order for voice picking technology to work properly, you will need an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and a Warehouse Management System (WMS). These systems will allow you to seamlessly integrate your inventory data into your voice picking process. They also provide real-time data tracking so that you can monitor performance and make any necessary adjustments quickly and easily. Additionally, you will need compatible headsets for each picker in order for them to be able to receive instructions from the WMS through their headsets.

Benefits of voice picking technology

Voice picking technology has several advantages over traditional order picking methods such as paper-based systems or barcodes. It allows workers to work hands-free, freeing up their hands for other tasks such as packing orders or loading pallets onto trucks. Additionally, voice recognition software reduces the need for manual data entry which can be both time consuming and prone to errors.

How does it improve warehouse efficiency?

Voice picking technology not only improves worker efficiency but also helps increase the efficiency of your overall warehouse operations by streamlining the order fulfilment process. By providing clear verbal instructions through headsets instead of handwritten notes or barcodes, workers are able to move freely throughout the warehouse to quickly complete tasks without wasting time looking up information or making mistakes due to misreading codes or labels. This minimises picking errors and ensures that orders are fulfilled quickly and accurately, which ultimately leads to increased customer satisfaction levels as well as higher profits for your business.

 If you’re looking for an automated solution that allows your staff to work faster without sacrificing quality or accuracy, then voice picking might be just what you need!

Is your current ERP lacking flexibility to implement new tech? Check out Merret Pro. With a built in WMS and integrations into other leading retail platforms, we’re here to help modernise your processes and maximise profit.

The post Your Pick Is My Command! How Voice Picking Is Transforming Warehouse Efficiency appeared first on Retail Assist.

1000s of retail tech heads gathered at Olympia, London, last week as we reunited once again at the Retail Technology Show 2022. A lot of the distractions from the last two years were set aside whilst we all looked forward to the future of retail and how we can get there!

Here are our highlights from last week:

"The metaverse, if you don't know then get to know."

One key takeaway is that although the metaverse is coming, it's not a retail priority, and shouldn't be for another few years. There are a lot more pinch points for retailers at the moment and a lot of macro factors to navigate whilst we still come out of the pandemic period, all issues which will continue to disrupt the sector for a few more years.

"What does the future of retail look like? Well, one thing for sure is that it won't be in the metaverse… Retail is a human interaction, it's a personal thing." Andrew Busby, Global Retail Senior Director at Software AG and Founder of Retail Reflections

Although now isn't the time for the metaverse in retail, that doesn't mean it should be neglected. Get to know what is happening in the space, check out what the social media giants are doing with it and think about how you could eventually use it. But don't just use tech for the sake of tech, how will it add value to the customer experience? How will it enhance the relationship you have with your customers?

Andrew Busby, Global Retail Senior Director at Software AG and Founder of Retail Reflections, spoke to Retail Assist about what he believes the future of retail looks like:

- Watch the video here –

Checkout-free shopping

Amazon's walk out technology was arguably the highlight of the show floor. Amazon plan to elevate the retail experience with their 'Just Walk Out' technology, meaning shoppers can simply walk into a store, grab their products, and leave.

The tech already exists in retail, many Amazon own stores, hospitality environments and stadiums. In the UK, Amazon have rolled out the technology to a Sainsbury's store in Richmond and eventually you'll be able to tap and go with your card or mobile payment, as you would on the tube.

The tech works through a mix of AI and cameras mounted on the ceiling of the stores to track shoppers around the store, charging them on their departure. This enables a seamless and truly convenient experience for shoppers and is expected to be a big hit in the convenience sector.

Sarah-Jane Nightingale, Business Development Manager at Retail Assist, describes the Just Walk Out tech in her highlights from the Retail Tech Show:

- Watch the video here –

The post Top Takeaways From the Retail Tech Show 2022 appeared first on Retail Assist.

After so much disruption to our normal lives, it's refreshing to see headlines outlining increasing footfall, rising consumer confidence and retailers gearing up for a busier than expected peak season.

With the festive season being our first outside of lockdown and the not-so-distant memory of a somewhat quieter Christmas in 2020, shoppers are out for a sensory experience this year, looking for goods that bring people together as socialising and hosting make a comeback. This is expected to bring sales back to pre-pandemic patterns, fuelled by consumers going big on Christmas this year, to make up for the disarray that was 2020.

"20% of shoppers were browsing for gifts as early as July, demonstrating a levelled-out approach to Christmas shopping this year, a concurring trend with October 2020, which recorded the strongest Y-o-Y sales growth in six years."

A pandemic trend that has stuck is the reliance on online retail, as the majority of Christmas sales this year are expected to take place online. However, this doesn't leave store sales to spurn, with consumers starved of experience and partygoers desperate for social interaction this season; we're expecting an uplift in hospitality. Not only does increased spend in hospitality increase fashion sales, but it drives footfall to shopping centres where consumers can experience a mix of leisure and hospitality alongside shopping.

Are you prepared for the increased footfall, and desire for social experiences this season? We've been supporting our clients in getting ready for peak trade and have prepared a peak trading checklist for you to download for free here.  We can help you ensure your systems are primed and ready to run smoothly.

Black Fri…quarter?

20% of shoppers were browsing for gifts as early as July, demonstrating a levelled-out approach to Christmas shopping this year, a concurring trend with October 2020, which recorded the strongest Y-o-Y sales growth in six years. Additionally, Black Friday sales have slowly become less frantic with a more relaxed approach taken by retailers. Black Friday trends demonstrate a move towards month long deals or no participation at all, as awareness of the unsustainable impact of mass consumerism increases.

This of course plays into the hands of retailers who are aiming to reduce movement throughout the supply chain in an attempt to not cause outright chaos in the lead up to Christmas. Encouraging shoppers to buy earlier than normal (without creating a sense of panic!) drives a consistent flow of purchasing, rather than a melodramatic spike in the last week of November, increasing product availability for customers as retailers can mediate their response to demand.

How are you ensuring the maximum availability of products to your customer base?

Through our supply chain solution Merret, we are providing retailers with a central view of stock across many shopping channels, meaning that it can be sourced however and whenever the customer chooses to shop.  Efficiency through your supply chain is the key to maximising sales at full price.

For the last-minute shoppers however, retailers can encourage sales to increase in the last weeks leading up to Christmas with click and collect. As postal cut-offs are expected to be set earlier this December, embracing in-store deliveries gives a push to online sales whilst driving footfall in-store. This also frees up capacity in the warehouse as store staff are able to fulfil orders, whilst managing wider demand and strain on supply chains.

Through our supply chain solution, Merret, again retailers are utilising the functionality within the solution to treat stores as distribution hubs and facilitate the uplift in click and collect ordering. With many click and collect shoppers spending an average or 14% more than home deliveries, it's certainly another area to maximise on sales and make the most of people heading to the high street.

As we step into 2021's peak trade season with a renewed sense of consumer confidence, however your customers decide to shop, ensure you're offering them multi-channel, tailored approach that appreciates their need for sentiment through a consistent brand experience.

To hear how Retail Assist can support your in-store experience for flexible and profitable use of your stock, contact us here and one of our experts will be in touch.

The post Are You Prepared for Peak Trade 2021? appeared first on Retail Assist.

Stock Replenishment Definition

Stock replenishment is a standard retail practice, to ensure that the right products are in the best place, at the optimum quantity. Retailers can automate replenishment using intelligent algorithms, which can be particularly beneficial during promotional or seasonal events. Replenishment is essential to avoid stock-outs.

Can you distribute stock between your warehouse and stores, dynamically, and with 100% accuracy? That’s the requirement for every modern retailer today, operating with an omnichannel mentality, especially during peak periods and promotions. Improving your replenishment processes can support this. Retailers must be able to move stock quickly between different locations, such as stores, concessions and franchises, and partners, whilst also maintaining healthy warehouse stock for eCommerce orders. A central stock pool facilitates this flexibility.

Increased speed to sell is just one of the benefits of optimum stock replenishment, ensuring that the customer is delivered the item that they demand, in increasingly fast timescales. Dependable automated replenishment, reducing the possibility of stock-outs, improves the customer experience by ensuring that products are more readily available across all channels, avoiding the dreaded “out of stock”.

Stock replenishment isn’t just a process: analytically speaking, it can also help retailers to forecast more accurately with complete visibility of their global inventory and demand. Performance at SKU/Site level is automatically reviewed and ideal stock levels can be increased or decreased accordingly, enabling more full price items to be sold. Changes to future stock levels can also be forecast and systemically defined prior to specific activity e.g. promotional events. 

Retail Assist’s auto replenishment solution has been developed for today’s dynamic omnichannel environment, and offers many benefits, including:

• Optimised sales: Order the right amount of product, to be delivered at the correct time, to the best place. Better stock replenishment maintains optimum inventory levels on all products so that you can sell more effectively where and when it is needed.
• Reduced mark-downs: Optimised stock levels allow you to fulfil your customer demand with fewer stock outs. With a greater sell through of full priced stock and a reduced rate of markdown, margins are protected and profits soar.
• Maximise stock turn: Confidently fulfil customer demands without inflating your levels of inventory, preventing over and under stocking, both of which damage business profitability.

Find out more about replenishment here.

Retail Assist offers 21 omnichannel scenarios for flexible and profitable use of your stock, e.g. Ship-from-Store, Deliver to address, click-and-collect. Want to invest in your retail IT infrastructure with improved store replenishment? Contact us here and one of our experts will be in touch.

If you need to know more about key retail terms then look at our other retail definitions including WSSI, EPOS and Purchase Order Management.

The post What is Stock Replenishment? appeared first on Retail Assist.

Whilst life in lockdown may mean a multitude of things for each person, it has certainly given us all time to reflect and consider the things we want to focus on. It's given us the time to review our personal priorities.

Many people have used this time for themselves, to learn a new skill, decorate the house, move house, or maybe use the time to get fit. People have found new interests, used to the time to do things that they probably never would have done before or think creatively about how to use the time to keep themselves busy – and move forward. Over the last 12 months, fitness is certainly something that I have used the extra time for; as a keen runner already, I've found the lack of commute has been great for exercising and keeping myself in check, both physically and mentally. But it seems that many people have been doing the same: fitness and wellbeing brand, Sweaty Betty, recently reported revenue grew by around 60% during 2020 whilst, when we first went into lockdown, bike sales shot up 60% in April 2020 compared with the previous month. With a lot of time on our hands and not many ways to spend it, fitness provided a much-needed escape, with lockdown giving us a time-rich opportunity to make a head start on it.

This got me thinking. Could the same be said for businesses?

If you haven’t already taken the opportunity to do so already, is the lockdown period actually a time to "get fit"? Whilst it's a period of downtime for store or hospitality estates, what can you be doing in the background to get fully fit, ready for reopening?

This is what we have been doing for many of our clients. Whether it's a support project to help them select and rollout a new POS solution, implement new managed services support, or implementing new software. Ultimately, not only are we keeping ourselves fit, but getting businesses in shape too, ready for the surge in demand when we are finally allowed to go out.

If you're looking to shed the pounds – quite literally, with our cost saving support – then we are providing free health checks, to discuss your brand’s strategy. At a time that’s convenient to you, we’re offering an opportunity to talk to one of our strategists to have a no obligation chat about your goals and what tech we think can help you achieve them.

Can we be the personal trainer you need in order to become a lean, flexible business that survives whatever the demands of the future may be? Get in touch with us here.

The post Check Your Tech! Why Lockdown is the Perfect Time to Get Business Fit appeared first on Retail Assist.