Couche-Tard supports planning with AI
Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. is deploying artificial intelligence (AI) to unify forecasting, replenishment, and space and floor planning.
The Canada-based convenience store giant will implement Relex AI- and machine learning (ML)- based supply chain and retail planning solutions across its Circle K and Couche-Tard locations in the U.S. and Canada. Utilizing the automated Relex demand forecasting and replenishment solutions, Circle K aims to enhance inventory management by optimizing store stock levels to help ensure products are available when and where customers need them.
Circle K has also actively been implementing autonomous checkout technology.
Couche-Tard plans to improve its merchandising strategy by improving space decisions and product replenishment throughout the organization, with the goal of improving customer satisfaction and enhancing overall store performance and efficiency.
Alimentation Couche-Tard has used Relex supply chain and store and floor planning solutions in its European business since 2017, and says it has measurable results. By deploying it in North America, the company seeks to optimize inventory levels, significantly reduce out-of-stocks, and improve the effectiveness of merchandising and internal operations.
"Key to our mission to make our customers’ lives a little easier every day is ensuring we always have the products and brands they want, when they want them, which is why we are very pleased to incorporate Relex solutions into our North American operations," said Trey Powell, senior VP global merchandising for Alimentation Couche-Tard. "With Relex, we can tailor advanced forecasting and inventory management to the needs of our individual stores and streamline our internal processes for better efficiency to provide the best quality products and a best-in-class customer experience."
"We are honored by Circle K’s trust as they implement our unified solutions across their North American operations," said Keith Adams, senior VP of North America at Relex. "Their trust in our solution’s capabilities is a reflection of our commitment to delivering value through our unified platform. We are confident that our solutions will significantly contribute to Circle K's journey towards operational excellence and further strengthen our long-standing relationship."
Alimentation Couche-Tard operates in 29 countries and territories, with more than 16,700 stores, of which almost 13,100 offer road transportation fuel. With its Couche-Tard and Circle K banners, it is one of the largest independent convenience store operators in the U.S. and it is a leader in the convenience store industry and road transportation fuel retail in Canada, Scandinavia, the Baltics, as well as in Ireland.
The company also has a presence in Poland and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of People’s Republic of China, and has recently expanded to Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. More than 150,000 people are employed throughout its network.