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In-depth insights from managing supply chains for over 25+ years

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June 8, 2026
8 min read

What Is the Retail Inventory Method? Formula & Examples

The retail inventory method helps retailers estimate inventory value without conducting a full physical stock count. This guide explains how the method works, how to calculate ending inventory using the cost-to-retail ratio, and where it fits within modern retail operations. You'll also learn the advantages and limitations of the approach, how it compares to FIFO and other valuation methods, and why many retailers are moving beyond estimation with forecasting, replenishment, and inventory planning software. Whether you're in finance, inventory management, or retail operations, understanding the retail inventory method provides valuable context for making smarter inventory decisions.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
What Is the Retail Inventory Method? Formula & Examples
Supplier relationships are the #1 concern for supply chain experts
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May 12, 2025
5 min read

Why You’re Always Chasing Supplier Answers (and How to Stop)

Many supply chain teams rely on scattered spreadsheets and emails to track supplier information, leading to outdated lead times and missed opportunities. This blog explores how fragmented vendor data silently disrupts planning, creates inefficiencies, and makes supplier relationships harder to manage. It shows how centralizing supplier performance tracking—especially around lead times—can transform daily operations from reactive to strategic. Plus, it offers a free Vendor Data Checklist to help teams get started with the right data in one place.
Sustainability That Pays Off: How Better Data Cuts Waste Across Your Supply Chain
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April 10, 2025
5 min read

Less Waste, More Growth: The Case for Smarter Inventory and Supply Chain Data

Sustainability in the supply chain isn’t just about being green—it’s about reducing waste in all forms: time, space, money, and products. The root cause of much of that waste? Disconnected or inaccurate inventory and supply chain data. When data is centralized and reliable, businesses can forecast more accurately, automate smarter decisions, and avoid costly mistakes. The result is a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable operation—one that’s built for long-term growth.
The Key Supplier Data You Need for Stronger Relationships and Smarter Inventory Decisions
April 1, 2025
4 min read

Supplier Relationship Management: The Crucial Data Your Business Can’t Afford to Miss

Strong supplier relationships are built on more than just communication—they rely on data. From accurate lead times to fulfillment rates and future purchase forecasts, the right information can transform how you collaborate with vendors. In this blog, we break down the key supplier data your business needs to reduce risk, negotiate better, and streamline purchasing decisions.
A single source of data is essential for inventory management
March 27, 2025
3 min read

The Power of a Single Source of Truth in Inventory Management

Centralizing inventory data into a single, reliable source—like an ERP system—reduces errors, improves visibility, and streamlines decision-making. When paired with advanced inventory management software, businesses can automate processes, improve forecasting, and boost efficiency. In today’s unpredictable environment, accurate, accessible data isn’t just helpful—it’s a strategic advantage.
Safety Stock: What Is It and Why Is It So High?
March 20, 2025
5 min read

Understanding Safety Stock: What Is It and Why Is It So High?

Whether you’re new to logistics or a veteran, safety stock is an important concept that many people can be confused about. As a simple explanation, safety stock is an extra amount of stock that is maintained to mitigrate a risk of stockout. That is all well and good, but how is safety stock calculated in order to prevent a stockout? The answer to that is affected by a number of different variables: How predictable is the product in sales? How well is the forecast model fitted? What is the lead time? What is the forecast for the item? What is the confidence level and set service level? That may see like a lot, but all of these factors will affect an item’s safety stock.
By Randi W. Stebbins Randi W. Stebbins
7 Painful Ways Poor Data is Sabotaging Your Supply Chain
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March 7, 2025
4 min read

7 Ways Poor Data is Sabotaging Your Inventory Management

If your supply chain isn’t data-driven, you’re making costly mistakes—stockouts, overstock, unreliable suppliers, and lost customers. Without accurate data, you’re operating blindly, wasting money, and falling behind competitors who are optimizing their operations. This blog breaks down seven critical ways poor data is hurting your business—and how you can fix it before it’s too late.

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