The countdown has begun! We’re months away until the 2021 holiday shopping season kicks off. And, if the holiday season is anything like last year, the uncertainties are insurmountable.

One thing is certain: consumer buying habits have evolved drastically the past year. And, all the ‘new’ omnichannel delivery options, BOPIS, curbside, ship from store, etc, continue to be wildly popular. Consumers have quickly adopted the ease of buying online but expect the quickness of accurate and timely receipt of their order whether shipped to home, a store, or curbside.

In this peer to peer discussion, we’ll explore the automated process for efficient omnichannel order fulfillment, how to meet customer promises, and planning for inventory needs across all locations. Join us for tips to optimize your inventory promising strategy for a successful 2021 holiday season.

Together we will explore and ask questions such as:

1. How are you planning to manage inventory buys and subsequent distribution to stores and distribution centers?
2. Do you expect buying behaviors to replicate last holiday season?
3. What lead times are you planning to begin promotion, given that many retailers are now starting ‘holiday shopping season’ in October?
4. Are you adding staff, changing process or adjusting technology based on lessons from last season?
5. Are you optimizing inventory utilization to increase fill rates, reduce out of stocks and reduce costs to fulfill an order?
6. Are you looking at tools to reduce markdown costs, as well as stranded inventory?