Chico's supports omnichannel initiatives with Tyco Retail Solutions in RFID pilot

Neuhausen, Switzerland -- Tyco Retail Solutions has announced positive results from its RFID pilot with Chico’s FAS. With focus on evolving its omnichannel retailing strategy, Chico’s partnered with Tyco to address inventory accuracy and visibility challenges in 13 Soma Intimates pilot locations.



Having visibility to accurate and timely inventory availability is a mandate across all channels and locations to support omni-channel initiatives. Tyco’s RFID-based Inventory Intelligence solution provides visibility to items across all pilot stores and distribution centers, extending from store receipt to customer purchase, and through the exit door. Soma associates can now access accurate, real-time inventory information in one place to better manage their deep merchandise assortment and to drive increased sales and shopper satisfaction.



“Our core value remains consistent: provide the most amazing customer service,” said Ken Silay, director, technology, research and innovation for Chico’s. “Innovation is an integral part of our mission to create a great customer experience. With RFID-based inventory intelligence, we can enhance the opportunity to have the right product available at the right place, at the right time to satisfy our in-store and omnichannel shoppers. Increasing our inventory accuracy helps minimize lost sales and out-of-stocks, keeping our customers happy and associates more productive.”



The RFID initiative delivered compelling results in the pilot store group. Weekly full-store inventory counts enable Soma to maintain 90%-95% accuracy every day so associates can easily fill in needed merchandise.



Soma also gained insight into store loss prevention. Although shrink had not been a significant problem for Soma, with RFID read points at door exits, they gained insight to specific items lost, noting exactly when (and if) they left the store.