The Co-op has partnered with Atheon Analytics to create a tool that provides key metrics for collaborative planning, forecasting and replenishment between the retailer and its suppliers.
SKUtrak Collaborator has been developed by analytics specialist Atheon in conjunction with the Co-op’s supply chain teams as an extension to the SKUtrak Premium service.
“Collaborator gives us a chance to be open and transparent with our suppliers, and vice-versa. The result is faster and more efficient meetings, improved service levels, and ultimately increased sales for both of us,” said Paul Howarth, senior analyst at the Co-op.
It comprises three performance metrics in a single report for use in regular collaborative planning, forecasting, and replenishment (CPFR) meetings. The Co-op and its suppliers can then collaboratively improve overall trading performance through a shared view on:
Lee Robertshaw, head of supply chain at the Co-op, said: “Collaboration with suppliers is key to our aim of ‘working better together’ for our customers. Atheon have created SKUtrak Collaborator in conjunction with us to improve the quality, frequency, and effectiveness of the regular CPFR sessions.
“By working from a common source of trusted data through SKUtrak, we can ensure both parties remain on the same page, allowing for alignment when reviewing performance. It also enables us to recognise ongoing issues, facilitating a more collaborative relationship going forward.”
Atheon chief executive Guy Cuthbert said: “One of the largest challenges facing supply chain analysts is the lack of a single shared data source and thus the lack of a shared platform for effective decision making. SKUtrak Collaborator is the first of a series of upcoming product announcements that will further help improve collaboration, forecasting and replenishment between Co-op and its suppliers.”
