“ The shift to e-commerce is a data dream for retailers ”
MIGUEL DUARTE CONSUMER HEALTH LEADER , EY
price , other products of interest - that improves the omnichannel journey “ in a personalised way , and also provides the possibility to buy anything , anytime , anywhere .”
Duarte is certain that inventory estimates will soon be driven by predictive analytics , and that inventory location will not be as important as the ability to move inventory in very short time frames .
“ It doesn ’ t really matter where the inventory exists at a particular moment ,” he explains . “ What matters is how long the item takes to reach the retail point a particular consumer wants , according to their omnichannel journey .”
While agreeing that technology will be vital , Dove believes it can take companies only so far if the right people are not in place .
“ People and strong partnerships will continue to be the key factor in managing strong inventory management ,” she says . Having the right people in the right roles to manage inventory , solve problems and communicate with stakeholders is a necessity .
“ So too are the relationships companies keep with one another . The ability of retailers to collaborate will set them apart in how they navigate challenges within the supply chain .” supplychaindigital . com 53