Supply chain efficiency is the top IT priority for the
retail and wholesale industry this year, new research has
shown.
The new study from analyst IDC's European vertical markets group
looked at the key challenges facing retailers and wholesalers in
Western Europe, their business priorities and IT investment
plans.
It highlighted supply chain efficiency improvement and efficient
sourcing and procurement as the key issue. The study found that
e-procurement initiatives were increasing, supplier agreements were
being monitored in real time and optimised, and warehouse
operations were being consolidated and rationalised.
Ivano Ortis, programme manager for IDC's manufacturing insights
group, said, “The current business landscape is pushing retailers
in diversifying their business strategies and optimising the
service delivery, while achieving advanced performance management
and enhanced operational efficiencies in order to counteract the
effect of volatile consumers.”
The research also highlighted the industry’s focus on customer
service, marketing effectiveness and sales productivity. Improving
store operations was “one of the most critical areas” in achieving
new levels of consumer satisfaction., the study noted.
Management and operation improvements were also important to
retailers and wholesalers, with mobile working a key route to
enhancing productivity and improving customer service. Ensuring
accurate real-time business performance management was
“fundamental” for retailers, the study found.