News
Aldata helps Auchan’s simply market to deliver ‘market fresh’ produce
10.11.2009
Aldata helps Auchan’s simply market to deliver ‘market fresh’ produce with automated store replenishment and real-time inventory management
Retail software specialist, Aldata has rolled out its G.O.L.D. retail optimization solution across the Auchan Group’s newly launched Simply Market supermarket stores in France. The new brand has been formed by the merger of Auchan’s ATAC and Simply Market operations. Around 300 Simply Market stores have been equipped with Automatic Store Replenishment, as well as hand-held PDAs in store for real-time inventory management.
The Auchan Group took the decision to equip all stores with Aldata’s G.O.L.D. retail optimization software as part of the rollout of the new Simply Market store concept and as part of a systems integration project that has been underway since 2005.
With Aldata G.O.L.D., Simply Market is now able to manage products at the unit level. This provides real-time insight into sales of each product, making it easier to optimize store stock levels, ensure on shelf availability and avoid unnecessary mark-downs. In addition, the group is live with Aldata’s Master Data Management and Invoice Matching, which together provide timely insight into supplier transactions, resulting in dramatically increased purchasing efficiency. Aldata G.O.L.D. is also now operational at two of the organisation’s six warehouses.
Charles Henri Fournier, IT Project Manager at Simply Market, said: “We took the decision to move ownership of stock management – from the back room onto the shop floor - down to the individual category managers within each store, through the use of mobile terminals. We’ve been able to empower more than 3,000 staff to operate in this way, and the reaction we have had so far has been extremely positive. Specifically, it enables our staff to assure on-shelf availability whilst minimising mark-downs.”
Dominique Chambas, SVP G.O.L.D. General Business, Aldata, said: “This project is a good example of Aldata’s ability to collaborate closely with our customers. Our deep expertise in the retail business has meant that we have been able to work with Simply Market to optimize key business processes in their supply chain.”
About Simply Market
Simply Market was established in 2005 in Italy, Spain and France, with a focus on the provision of fresh produce at low prices. Simplicity, welcoming customer service and active participation in local life, are also key characteristics of the Simply Market brand.
The stores ensure the freshest possible quality by stocking seasonally and in step with local markets. Simply Market is specifically focused on ‘market fresh’ produce at ‘permanently low’ prices.
At the end of 2008, the ATAC brand comprised 297 integrated stores, 35 franchises and 82 associates across France. 303 of those now carry the Simply Market brand.
