Winn-Dixie to Implement Chainwide Computer-Generated Ordering

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Winn-Dixie Stores here will immediately begin planning for the implementation of a computer-generated ordering application, the SAF SuperStore forecasting and ordering system, throughout its 520-store chain.

The system, from SAF, Dallas, will automate Winn-Dixie’s store orders using a demand-chain management approach based on forecasted sales and current inventory levels. The solution’s forecasts will also take factors such as seasonal effects, promotions, price changes and advertising campaigns into account.

Further, micro-forecasting will allow each item’s sales history to be used to address changing sales patterns in each store to meet localized demand.

The SAF system “should provide us with the technology to improve our in-stock position of everyday and promoted products to meet our customers’ needs,” said Charlie Weston, chief information officer, Winn-Dixie, in a statement. “By optimizing our inventory, we also expect to reduce out-of-stocks, and ultimately increase sales revenues across the supply chain.”

Read More of Today's Headlines