VF Corp. improves omnichannel inventory visibility via mobile scanning
VF took a phased approach to implementation, starting with its stores in North America and successfully piloting the technology there. The company found that omnichannel processes were occurring closer to the customer and in real time, with associates receiving goods easier and faster for enhanced stock accuracy
Store associates now know exactly where an item is in store, even if it hasn’t been fully processed and moved to the floor. VF determined that associates are saving up to 60% of their time on tedious scan-heavy tasks with the new smartphone-based solution.
Improved inventory accuracy is also resulting in decreased canceled orders, with associates enabled to collect items with customers and offer cross- and up-selling recommendations, creating an increase in sales.
Resource planning has also improved. Stores used to have no visibility to forecasts. However, now they know in seven days in advance what items will be delivered and the number of SKUs that need to be scanned and received, helping to plan the resources required in store.
“We have started with the key concept of Scandit, injecting scanning speed, accuracy and intelligence into our operations,” said Andrea Comi, global director, digital and technology DTC, VF Corporation. “But there are a lot more advanced capabilities we can use. So my idea is to start building more layers to improve our operations even further.”
Established in 1899 in Pennsylvania, VF Corp. operates globally across 1,265 retail stores and employs 35,000 associates.