This article discusses Parmalat, the Italian dairy products giant, who is taking the lead in an EU initiative and exploring new ways of implementing ECR concepts in the fresh foods sector. Conquering the Maze Promotions could not be addressed as part of the ECR effort, but the financial considerations for manufacturers are so compelling, the issue of promotional efficiency is not likely to drop. Retailers must act quickly to save themselves from the systems disaster of the century - Year 2000 problem. Many believe the grocery industry is a lot farther along in achieving tangible results from ECR than anyone expected. But widespread benefits may still be years away.
Tiny retailer installs vendor's software from registers to back office.
There has been a noticeable increase in the number of manufacturing organizations showing commitment to the initiative - a trend that is being mirrored on the retail side of the business as well. Once past the unique challenges encountered in implementing ECR strategies in the perishables departments, retailers stand to reap some sweet rewards. New survey finds supermarkets outpacing manufacturers on supply chain improvements. Its management thinks so. Product development, though often misunderstood, has a direct impact on your firm's financial results.