A new trial by French supermarket giant Carrefour will see it using artificial intelligence for data analysis.
Working with SAS and Capgemini, the retailer will deploy the SAS Viva product to collect and process data from across its operations.
The software will allow Carrefour to analyse the data from stores, warehouses and ecommerce sites to improve its forecasting and ordering processes. The company can create its own algorithms for its specific needs.
SAS and Capgemini will also offer technological and business consulting services.
The aim of the project, which will be implemented after an 18-month test period, is to reduce waste and overstocks.
“Carrefour aims to create a unique online and in-store shopping universe where the most suitable merchandise for recognised loyalty customers is guaranteed any time, any place,” said a press release from SAS.
Franck Noel-Fontana, forecasting director at Carrefour France, said: “The SAS Viya deployment will allow us to take a step forward in our supply chain optimisation.
“Artificial intelligence will free up time for our teams to focus on developing differentiated forecasting strategies and best meet our customers’ expectations while reducing waste.”
A recent study by Capgemini found that automation was increasingly vital in supply chains. The report indicated that automation could be a way to achieve this balance, especially for retailers with large store footprints, with automation of the back room in stores reducing the cost of click and collect and delivery from the store by 14%. Automating warehouses could potentially increase margins by 8% through higher throughput and lower fulfilment costs, while autonomous vehicles could increase profit margins up to 14%.
https://edelivery.net/2019/01/automation-crucial-last-mile-erodes-profits-says-report/
