Regional grocer reduces food waste with AI

Kimberton Whole Foods is growing sales and cutting out-of-stocks and shrink by automating inventory management.

The independent, family-owned specialty grocer operating in the Greater Philadelphia area is deploying predictive technology and an automated ordering solution from Shelf Engine to reduce in-store food waste.

Across the products it manages using Shelf Engine’s artificial intelligence (AI) and cognitive automation technology, Kimberton Whole Foods has increased fresh food sales by an average of 42%, and up to 70% at its best-performing store, while also reducing out-of-stocks and shrink. The retailer is applying Shelf Engine technology across all of its stores, with plans to expand into more products and categories in the future.

“Not only has Shelf Engine had an incredible impact on our sales, but these benefits have extended far beyond our shelves”, said Robin Brett, director of purchasing, Kimberton Whole Foods. “With less time spent on forecasting and inventory planning, we’re able to spend more time focused on what matters most: our customers. By working with Shelf Engine, and letting them take care of the inventory management and ordering, we can put more focus on providing our customers with the best shopping experience possible.”

“Kimberton Whole Foods championed its sustainable philosophy before these ideas were mainstream, and has remained a pioneer for innovative, forward-thinking business models,” said Stefan Kalb, co-founder and CEO, Shelf Engine. “Tapping Shelf Engine’s technology has enabled the company to increase sales and profits while strengthening its commitment to giving back — a win-win.”

Based in Phoenixville, Penn., Kimberton Whole Foods has six stores in the Greater Philadelphia-area municipalities of Collegeville, Douglassville, Downingtown, Kimberton, Malvern, and Ottsville.