S&OP in retail: Strategic superpower or operational overload?

Pros: 

• Inventory Insight: S&OP delivers a knockout blow to excess stock and out-of-stock, keeping inventory lean and mean. 
• Forecasting Finesse: With S&OP, you can predict the punches, aligning demand planning with supply chain moves for a smooth operation. 
• Cost Cutting: Dodge the financial uppercuts by optimizing resources and reducing waste, always keeping an eye on your targets and budgets. 

Cons: 

• Complexity Conundrum: S&OP can be a heavyweight to handle, with layers of complexity that can leave you on the ropes. 
• Resource Rumble: It demands a tag team of time, tech, and talent. Without them, you’re stepping into the ring unprepared. 
• Change Management Melee: Implementing S&OP is like a level 4  training session, it takes time, effort, a whole lot of dedication, and change management muscle.  

In the retail rumble, S&OP can be your cornerman for strategic success or a tough opponent to tackle. Weigh the pros and cons before stepping into the ring. 

We’ve got experience in helping clients to navigate the bouts and knocking out the Cons to support your journey to victory. 

If you think you’re up for the fight but would like some truly independent support, give us a call, or drop us a line and we’ll be in your corner.