Richard Angelillo

An interesting read on the impacts of the new government on retail. A mixed bag: Tax cuts or continuation of tax cuts that are due to expire in 2025, increased tariffs( = increase in expenses), a warmer approach to mergers, etc. #retail

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Hello Retail Friends, I am proud to announce that RELEX is once again designated as a Leader in The Forrester Wave™: Collaborative Supply Networks, Q4 2024 report. This prestigious recognition underscores our commitment to enhancing supply chain transparency, resilience, and efficiency for US retailers. Our top scores in innovation, vision, and several key areas, including embedded AI and ML, highlight our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions. These capabilities enable seamless collaboration between retailers and suppliers, ensuring that our customers can anticipate changes in demand and supply, and continuously align production and transportation schedules. This acknowledgment from Forrester reaffirms our mission to drive mutual success through advanced supply chain and retail planning capabilities. We remain committed to delivering the tools necessary for our customers to achieve unparalleled supply chain visibility and operational excellence. Read the full press release here: https://bit.ly/3YJHbFU #SupplyChain #Forrester #AI #Innovation #RetailExcellence RELEX recognized as a Leader for the first time in this report by independent analyst firm, for demonstrating “a superior vision of an adaptive and autonomous supply chain…”…  

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Hello Retail Friends,   It’s no secret that supply chains have faced unprecedented disruption and volatility in recent years, underscoring the need to address vulnerabilities, improve preparedness, and create innovative strategies.   We surveyed 285 retail, CPG, and wholesale leaders globally in February 2024, exploring the challenges, strategic investment areas, and opportunities for retailers and CPGs over the next 3-5 years.   See how retail and CPG executives are tackling these challenges and planning for the future in our report, State of Supply Chain 2024: Retail and CPG Dynamics.     https://lnkd.in/eQQVdNmN     #supplychain #businesstransformation #supplychainplanning

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Hello Retail Friends, convenience retailers face unique challenges. Small footprints and limited storage space require highly accurate and scalable supply chain planning – especially when charged with supporting aggressive growth targets. We’re proud to announce that OXXO, the largest convenience retail chain in the Americas, recently chose RELEX to optimize forecasting and replenishment as they focus on international growth.    https://lnkd.in/ebaedkfH   #supplychainplanning #supplychainoptimization #supplychain OXXO Internacional Enhances Retail Operations with RELEX Solutions for Forecasting and Replenishment | RELEX Solutions Focused on international growth, OXXO adopts RELEX AI-driven forecasting and replenishment solutions for smarter supply chain and inventory management.

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A brutal mix of factors over the last few years led to retailers absorbing excess inventory shocks. But with the cost of capital increasing, it’s more important than ever to ensure inventory levels do not rise to unsustainable levels while also avoiding out-of-stocks. Our latest insight by Amit Mahajan, Young Hu and Aabha Rathee reveals how leveraging AI and ML can transform inventory management, leading to a 10-20% reduction in working capital, a 50-60% reduction in stock shortage in stores, a 2-4% uplift in sales, and a 1-3% margin benefit. Discover how these technologies can help retailers optimize supply chains, reduce markdowns, and enhance customer satisfaction. Read the full article here:

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It's unsurprising that some consultants for retail are still completely missing the boat with new technology -- to argue that retailers need a "war room" for inventory management because retailers have siloed data is ridiculous. Umm, maybe replace the disconnected systems with a modern unified platform instead of adding more labor, inefficiency, and complexity to the retail chain. A unified system like FieldStack running a retail chain will easily, provably outperform a "war room" of people looking at siloed data sets -- the "war room" will invariably induce personal bias, be slower, and much harder to scale... there is a much better way --- fix the problem! #retail #retailstrategy #inventorymanagement

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This interview with Walmart CEO Doug McMillon is a #retail #masterclass. A bit of context and perspective, combined with a lot of detail about every aspect of their business — #merchandising, #SupplyChain, #stores, #digital / #omnichannel, #international, #technology, #marketplaces, #RMNs, and more. And this will make an excellent base prompt for a retail #AI assistant — one of my #WeekendProjects

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Dear Retail Friends,   If you’re a wholesaler, access to data from suppliers and retail customers is critical in enabling optimal service levels with minimal inventory. But getting that data, and acting upon it, can be challenging.   While there are many hurdles to this kind of collaboration, it can be done. And the benefits are numerous – not just for wholesalers, but their suppliers and retail customers as well.   https://lnkd.in/dbxub36v   #supplychain #supplychainoptimization #wholesaledistribution The future of wholesale supply chain collaboration | RELEX Solutions Unlock insights on boosting wholesale collaboration for supply chain efficiency and profit in this expert interview.

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🍊 Supply chain friends, join me Monday on the Blueberry 🫐 stage at Groceryshop 2024 for the track keynote, "Building Flexible and Efficient Supply Chains". This discussion features industry leaders who are reshaping the future of supply chain management:  🫐Nitin Murali, VP, Supply Chain Excellence, Gallo   🫐Bret Celmer, COO, The Rounds    We will discuss insights on creating agile and responsive supply chains that can meet the demands of today’s dynamic market. This session will provide valuable perspectives on leveraging technology and innovation for enhanced efficiency.   📅 7th Oct, 2024  📍Location: 🫐 Blueberry Stage at #Groceryshop2024   Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business!   #SupplyChain #Innovation #RetailExcellence #Capgemini

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It's interesting how retailers are slowly landing on the same three options for Self Checkout refinement to solve shrink. 1. Adding employee assisted checkout, 2. Adding barriers to leaving the store without confirmation of purchase (mechanical or human) or as a last resort, 3. Completely eliminating the option. From the consumer perspective its slowly becoming a negative experience... Curious what other options might exist..

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Hear from our own Rich Kurhajetz on the #MillenniumLive podcast. Rich shares how RELEX unified retail planning platform drives financial improvement, inventory reduction, and cost efficiencies, drawing from his extensive experience in demand planning and operations. #retail #supplychain #AI

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Retail Media Network Basics At A Glance At the Path to Purchase Institute, we've curated all the essential retail media intel, terms, and definitions you need to know. Whether you're new to retail media or looking to refresh your knowledge, this article is packed with valuable resources to help you stay ahead of the curve. Take a look and get up to speed on the latest in retail media. #RetailMedia #Marketing #P2PI #membership #MediaTrends https://lnkd.in/eS4Jnid8

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Silos in omni-channel retailing? Home Depot recently promoted Jordan Broggi to executive vice president of customer experience and “President of Online,” raising questions about the integration of its channels. Despite being hailed as “…one of the most interconnected retailers in the world” by CEO Ted Decker, this move seems to suggest a separate focus on the online channel. On the other hand, as EVP of Customer Experience, Broggi may very well taking responsibility for customer experience across all chanels while simultaneously leading the online channel. Experts have long advocated for the elimination of silos in omni-channel retailing. The appointment of a president for a single channel at a retail giant like Home Depot sparks curiosity about the company's organizational structure. Thoughts? #Retail #OmniChannel #HomeDepot #OnlineRetail #BusinessOrganization

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Are generous Return policies fostering irresponsible retail behavior? I was reading an insightful article by Ted - https://lnkd.in/e7fQEZZ6 which set me thinking about this point that I have always wondered about - Has generous, easy return policies by sellers, fostered Irresponsible online shopping habits? For e.g Amazon and Costco have become synonymous with generous return policies, offering customers ample time and few restrictions to return purchased items. Multiple ways to return without the hassle of packing/shipping etc. While this customer-centric approach has undoubtedly contributed to their success, it has also inadvertently encouraged certain irresponsible buying behaviors. Here's what I have observed - 1. Trial and Error Shopping: Reduced Risk: With lenient return policies, consumers feel less pressure to make informed purchasing decisions.  Impulsive buying, as there's a safety net in case the product doesn't meet expectations. Product Abuse: In some cases, products might be used for a specific purpose (like a party dress or expensive electronics) and then returned, essentially becoming a free rental. 2. Overconsumption Inflation: Accumulation of Unused Items: Easy returns can encourage excessive purchasing, especially in fashion. Consumers might buy multiple items with the intent to return what doesn't fit or is not liked, contributing to overconsumption. Resell Market Impact: Returned items often end up in the resale market, potentially devaluing genuine secondhand items and creating additional waste. 3. Product Misuse and Abuse: Lack of Accountability: Knowing they can easily return a product, some consumers might treat items carelessly or use them beyond their intended purpose. This can lead to increased product damage and returns. In one case - a Costco member returned a $1400! children's outdoor swing/play set after 12 yrs, reason - Children have outgrown it! Return Fraud: In extreme cases, organized return fraud can occur, where individuals purchase items, use them, and then return them as defective, costing retailers significant losses. 4. Environmental Impact: Increased Packaging Waste: More products being ordered and returned results in a higher volume of packaging materials, contributing to waste. Reverse Logistics: The process of handling returns involves additional transportation and energy consumption, increasing the overall environmental footprint. While generous return policies enhance customer satisfaction, it's essential for retailers to find a balance between customer experience and responsible consumption. Implementing measures like restocking fees, limited return windows, or clear guidelines can help mitigate the negative impacts without compromising customer trust. What do you think? Post your comments and lets make a difference!

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Walmart continues to satisfy customers, drive sales, and lean heavily into technology for better customer experiences and expense reductions. If e-commerce profitability remains elusive for such a large, integrated, and technologically advanced brand, what could that imply for other E-commerce operations and their 'path to profitability'? Excerpts: Dive Insight: Despite softening trends elsewhere in retail, Walmart isn’t “experiencing a weaker consumer,” CEO Doug McMillon said on a call with analysts as the company reported Q2 performance that beat analysts’ expectations. The retailer is also continuing to compete on price, he said, with more than 7,200 rollbacks in the U.S. TD Cowen analysts led by Oliver Chen said in a note that general merchandise, which comprises about 30% of Walmart’s mix, was a bright spot, returning flat comps for the first time after nine quarters of declines. Walmart’s value, digital and delivery convenience, and practical adoption of artificial intelligence “is yielding attractive consistency,” Chen said. McMillon said during an earnings call that pickup is growing faster than in-store or club sales and that delivery is also outpacing pickup. The e-commerce progress, McMillion said, is fueling the growth of the company’s newer businesses, like advertising (up 26% in Q2) and Walmart+ memberships. McMillon said Walmart+ memberships were up double digits and Sam’s Club U.S. saw a record high member count in the quarter. Marketplace sales grew 32% in Q2, the fourth straight quarter of 30% growth. While e-commerce is still not profitable, global e-commerce losses narrowed, thanks to an almost 40% reduction in U.S. net delivery cost per order. As for long-term profitability in the channel, McMillon told analysts “not to get too hung up on it.” “We have a great and huge store and club business around the world that is profitable,” McMillon said. “We make money in food. We make money in consumables. We make money in general merchandise. And we’ll eventually make money in e-commerce.” #walmart #ecommerce #profitability

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Walmart is finally moving forward with Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs). While ESLs are common today, scaling them to 2,300 Walmart stores is a significant and challenging decision. Implementing this technology requires a substantial investment and careful planning. Strategic thinking is crucial for such an investment. 이마트 (Emart) Tech was able to start this journey five years ago, benefiting from a relatively smaller scale compared to Walmart. Great move, Walmart! #ESL #Innovation #Emart #EmartTech #Technology https://lnkd.in/gC2rbbu6

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Good read for points to consider. I would add a few more. On data, capture the right level of detail that allows observable corrections to improve the scorecards. Get agreement from all stakeholders on the measurement and the details behind the measurement. I remember a previous role where it took several months for accounting and merchandising to agree on the inputs for the margin calculation. Do not underestimate the need for change management. You create a scorecard to ensure success. It will flush issues that require change in the retailer and supplier networks. Leaders must be expect and support those changes. Some of those changes will be uncomfortable and may strike close to home.

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“I’ve always said that demand planning is the key. It sets the pace for our supply chain and prepares the ground for everything else – strategically, tactically, and operationally. Thanks to the statistical forecasting capabilities of RELEX, our demand planning process is now automated. Not only does this save valuable time, but we’re also getting much better forecast accuracy.” Arijit Saha, General Manager of Supply Chain at Tegel Foods Ltd, sheds light on how Tegel has benefitted from RELEX Solutions software. #CaseStudy #SupplyChain 

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How can you best maintain your focus through the holidays and end-of-year? 𝗡𝗼 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀. 💡   Wait ... what? I know this sounds radical, but hear me out.   Convenience Store News just published a piece on the innovation agenda for convenience retailers, citing five strategic initiatives that will never get old.   1️⃣ The Store Experience 2️⃣ Foodservice Innovation 3️⃣ Customer Engagement 4️⃣ Data-Driven Decision Making 5️⃣ Workforce Optimization   "𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘤-𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴."   These are not new concepts, but rather well-known ideas put into action. Take a look at this work from Melissa Kress, Danielle (Romano) Rowan, and Tammy Mastroberte to see how the winners keep winning, even despite "no new ideas."   📕 Read on: https://lnkd.in/g5wwrenK #convenience #cstore #innovation #roadmap #digital

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