Supply Chains Adopt New SOP Metrics for Resilience

Supply Chains Adopt New SOP Metrics for Resilience

Facing delivery challenges, companies need to re-evaluate S&OP metrics, shifting focus from capacity to enhancing supply chain agility. By optimizing key indicators such as demand forecasting, shortening production cycles, and improving inventory turnover, and by strengthening cross-departmental collaboration, businesses can effectively respond to demand fluctuations and achieve sustainable growth. This involves a more responsive and flexible approach to planning and execution, allowing for quicker adaptation to market changes and improved customer service.

Chicago Fed Reports Modest Drop in Unemployment Despite Data Issues

Chicago Fed Reports Modest Drop in Unemployment Despite Data Issues

The Chicago Fed's November unemployment rate forecast indicates a slight improvement, but the forecast was adjusted due to the delayed release of non-farm payroll data. The probability distribution of the unemployment rate is skewed upwards, suggesting future risks. This tracker provides investors with real-time economic insights, but should be considered in conjunction with other data for a comprehensive assessment. The adjustment highlights the impact of data availability on economic forecasting.

Bel Group Adopts Kinaxis AI to Streamline Supply Chain

Bel Group Adopts Kinaxis AI to Streamline Supply Chain

Bel Group leverages the Kinaxis Maestro platform to optimize its supply chain, enhancing efficiency and visibility. This implementation allows them to better respond to unexpected demand fluctuations, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions. By utilizing AI-powered solutions, Bel Group achieves a more agile and sustainable supply chain, improving overall performance and resilience in a dynamic market environment. The platform's capabilities in demand forecasting and intelligent operations are key to their success.

UK Faces Energy Crisis As Consumers Prioritize Essentials

UK Faces Energy Crisis As Consumers Prioritize Essentials

UK consumers are actively responding to the energy crisis, with sales of thermal underwear and energy-efficient appliances surging. Despite a slight increase in retail sales value, actual sales volumes have decreased as high inflation exacerbates the cost of living crisis. Consumer confidence is down, leading to more cautious shopping habits. Retailers face the dual challenge of rising costs and declining purchasing power. The energy crisis is significantly shaping consumer behavior and impacting the UK retail landscape.

Kroger Gatik Deploy Autonomous Cold Chain Trucks

Kroger Gatik Deploy Autonomous Cold Chain Trucks

Kroger and Gatik have partnered to launch an autonomous refrigerated delivery service in Dallas, aiming to improve e-commerce order fulfillment speed, reduce operating costs, and enhance supply chain efficiency. This collaboration marks a new phase in the application of autonomous driving technology within the retail supply chain, foreshadowing a transformation in future retail logistics models. The service leverages self-driving vehicles to transport temperature-sensitive goods, potentially revolutionizing how groceries and other perishables are delivered to consumers.

01/16/2026 Logistics
Read More
Retailers Focus on Supply Chain Digital Shifts Postpandemic

Retailers Focus on Supply Chain Digital Shifts Postpandemic

The pandemic has accelerated the transformation of the retail industry, making supply chain reshaping and embracing digitalization crucial. The report indicates retailers are optimistic about the future, emphasizing employee retention, supply chain resilience, and technology investments. Data-driven omnichannel experiences and reinvented brick-and-mortar stores are essential. Companies should focus on ESG and data security to gain a competitive edge. The ability to adapt and innovate will be key to success in the evolving retail landscape.

Walmart Speeds Up Green Supply Chain Overhaul

Walmart Speeds Up Green Supply Chain Overhaul

Retail giant Walmart announced its 2025 sustainability goals, including sourcing over half of its energy from renewable sources, significantly reducing carbon emissions, achieving zero waste to landfill, and fully adopting recyclable packaging. This initiative aims to drive green transformation within Walmart and its supply chain, respond to consumer demand for environmentally friendly products, and set an example for sustainable development in the retail industry. Smaller retailers can also break through in the green market through differentiated competitive strategies.

US Retailers Stock Up for Strong Holiday Sales Season

US Retailers Stock Up for Strong Holiday Sales Season

The National Retail Federation (NRF) CEO stated that retail inventory levels in the US have returned to pre-pandemic levels, preparing the industry for the holiday season. The inventory-to-sales ratio has normalized, indicating that retailers have overcome inventory backlogs and improved operational efficiency. Retailers are adapting to market changes and embracing challenges and opportunities by adjusting inventory strategies and optimizing logistics. This positions them well to meet consumer demand during the crucial holiday shopping period and beyond.

Directtoconsumer Brands Face Cash Flow Challenges Amid Growth

Directtoconsumer Brands Face Cash Flow Challenges Amid Growth

This article explores common cash flow management challenges faced by D2C brands during expansion. Jon Blair, founder of Free to Grow CFO, emphasizes that a profitable income statement doesn't guarantee healthy cash flow. Brands should focus on the impact of inventory, accounts receivable, and marketing expenses on cash flow. Establishing a cash flow forecasting mechanism is crucial for sustainable growth. By proactively managing these elements, D2C brands can navigate the complexities of scaling and ensure long-term financial stability.

Marketers Leverage Google Keyword Planner for Targeted Campaigns

Marketers Leverage Google Keyword Planner for Targeted Campaigns

This article provides a detailed guide to Google Keyword Planner's functions and usage, covering account setup, new keyword discovery, search volume retrieval, and forecasting. It explains how to apply these insights to practical SEO, such as identifying highly relevant, high-search-volume, local, and long-tail keywords. Mastering these techniques can effectively enhance the precision of your marketing strategies. This includes understanding how to use the tool for both organic and paid search campaigns to maximize ROI.