The Co-op Group has announced a project with supply chain specialist JDA Software to revitalise its category management processes.
The move is the first phase of a multi-year plan which will see the retailer “getting closer to the needs of its members and customers, what they want, when and where they need it”.
This will see the Group upgrade its stores to the latest version of JDA Space Planning, Floor Planning and Category Knowledge Base. JDA says this will create “an end-to-end streamlined approach to managing its retail stores from floor to shelf”.
Michael Fletcher, retail chief commercial officer at the Group, said: “The first phase of our business transformation will set the stage for our advanced, sophisticated retail supply chain strategy that will drive increased consumer experience and choice through improved availability and better decisions.
“With a goal of always delivering what our members and customers want, and getting closer to their needs, our powerful JDA Category Management solution footprint enables us to anticipate shopper demands with agility and speed. We look forward to continuing to build on this robust foundation as we continue to deliver our strategy.”
The Group worked with a collaborative team from JDA, and partners Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Deloitte, for the first step of its multi-phased transformation.
JDA says the project allows the Group to automate its planograms – visual representations of a store’s products or services on display – to meet increased store localisation needs. The retailer will also be able to work with its teams and suppliers to ensure they are delivering accurate and early stocking information for each store.
There will also be more insight into shopper behaviour at macro and local level, allowing the Group to better plan its store layouts, tailored to customers from store to store.
“Maintaining competitive edge and anticipating shopper demands is more important than ever, and meeting those demands the first time is absolutely critical for retailers today,” said Johan Reventberg from JDA.
“We’re pleased to enable such a critical piece of the Co-op’s retail business transformation by underpinning it with our best-in-class category management solutions that will give them the right balance of right item, right store, right time, with the efficiency and agility they need in a challenging and dynamic retail sector.”
