Inventory — The Key To A Successful Holiday Season

By Bob Johns

Well, the holiday shopping season has officially begun, and the numbers will begin trickling in. Officially, the NRF and other organizations are predicting a three to four percent increase in overall retail sales this season, but it really could go either way with the amount of economic uncertainty and anticipated steep discounting. Months ago, retail buyers were deciding what merchandise to buy, in what quantities, and where to send it. The question now is, “Did they do it right?”

The margin for error for retail inventory may actually be higher now than ever before. This is because of improved inventory visibility and new fulfillment methods. Retailers can see in near real time how stock is selling, where it is selling best, and where it is going to need replenished the quickest. The latest inventory solutions give retailers complete visibility into stock levels in stores, distribution centers, and even with suppliers.

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