Del Monte Leverages Store Data

MICHAEL GARRY

ORLANDO, Fla. — Del Monte Foods receives detailed retailer data, including store POS and inventory data, from "at least eight" food retailers encompassing "60% to 70% of our volume," said David W. Allen, executive vice president, operations for Del Monte, San Francisco.

From other retailers, Del Monte receives "S&OP [sales and operations planning, promotion scheduling and DC projections," Allen said this week at the FMI/GMA Supply Chain Conference here. "We use the best data we have. But if they have POS data, we’d love to use it. POS and inventory data is more accurate than S&OP data."

Del Monte uses the daily store data on a daily basis to make adjustments in its production facilities, Allen said. "We change our priorities based on what happens at stores. If an item pulls harder or softer, we adjust our priorities in the supply chain."

Del Monte also shares the retail data with its co-manufacturers as well as packaging and ingredient suppliers. The data has also impacted numerous programs within Del Monte, such as transportation, sales planning, and trade promotion management. "We’re able to predict demand more efficiently and lower inventory," he said.