Coles Liquor deploys AI to optimise its supply chain

Coles Liquor, home to Liquorland, First Choice Liquor Market and Vintage Cellars will implement RELEX Solutions’ Living Retail platform to support supply chain planning across all 931 stores.

The goal of the project is to remove efficiencies in the supply chain and to use AI to improve demand forecasting and improve supply chain optimisation.

Coles Liquor will leverage its multi-channel inventory visibility to more effectively manage stock and make long-term planning decisions.

According to Genevieve Hawkins, Coles Liquor general manager transformation and supply chain, “It will drive greater operational efficiency across our business and is a key element of our strategic drive to be a truly omnichannel business.”

Hawkins said that the project will assist the business in its capacity to have the right stock available for suppliers and customers.

“This is an exciting and important investment for Coles Liquor, which will materially improve our ability to have the right stock in the right place for suppliers, shops and customers,” said Hawkins.

Digital Nation Australia reported on the software house's €500M capital raise earlier this year, led by Blackstone Growth.

Mikko Kärkkäinen, CEO at RELEX Solutions said COVID-19 had major impacts on both demand and supply in most retail sectors. "I have been impressed by the adaptability and resilience of our customers – on how quickly they have been able to understand the demand shifts.

"Baby Bunting is a great example of having a RELEX roll-out during the pandemic and being able to increase product availability and reduce stock even in extremely difficult conditions. The shift and Baby Bunting success are also shown in their recent results release presenting increased sales even though having 60 percent of stores closed, which signifies quite a successful shift online."

The company says its AI-driven, cloud-based platform helps retailers and brands and brands automate and optimise their demand planning, merchandising, supply chain, and workforce planning.

According to Kärkkäinen, “This also marks an important step in our continued Australia expansion, and we are excited to strengthen our presence in Australia even further this year.”

RELEX describes itself as a hyper-growth company and currently has more than 350 customers including AutoZone, PetSmart, The Vitamin Shoppe and Big Lots.