How the Power of Data Helps Streamline Grocery Operations

Maintaining a high level of operational efficiency is the goal of all grocery operations managers, but this objective can be very difficult to achieve. In the majority of cases, the problem can be traced to a lack of relevant data.

It’s just not enough to depend on what can be seen on the surface level to monitor mission-critical operations. If retailers want to get a truly accurate view of what’s going on at their store, there is no substitute for thorough data analytics in the management of inventory, cold storage units and in-house operational equipment and workflow processes.

Data analytics

Data analytics and measurable performance criteria can provide multiple benefits, whether operators manage a single location or an entire chain of stores.

Reducing costs. Events like an undetected refrigeration failure can mean disaster for grocery stores with the loss of thousands of dollars in perishable food. Sensors and data analytics can prevent these types of failures by revealing storage temperature issues that could indicate equipment defects. This historical data enables operators to view trends and take action before expensive damage occurs.

Streamlining operations. Ensuring that inspections are done carefully and on schedule is vital for keeping food supplies in safe consumable condition and remaining compliant with food-handling regulations. Digitizing inspection checklists gives stores the tools—and the data—to perform these duties in accordance with HACCP standards.

Digitized checklists (on handheld mobile devices) enable employees to complete the required workflows and perform and document on-the-spot corrective actions. Use of these devices significantly reduces the time traditionally needed for manual inspection tasks. The digital checklists store inspection-related data for future analysis, providing further opportunities for streamlining procedures, enhancing training and additional process improvements.

Driving competitive advantages. Data analytics can help chains ensure uniformity in operations across all locations, which is important for maintaining the brand standards that customers have come to trust. High-performing locations can be the example for those that need process improvement.

Data will assist in pointing out any weaknesses, so every store maintains the highest level of food safety and quality. Once operators understand performance data better, they can implement necessary changes, share training plans and make management decisions to improve overall organizational success.

Data analytics requires the right tools

Proper data analytics isn’t possible without a base of accurate data—which, in turn, isn’t possible without the hardware and software that can generate actionable information.

ComplianceMate consists of two modules: automated temperature monitoring and digital checklists used for monitoring and identifying the success and failure points with food and equipment temperatures. Both of these modules are designed to gather a wealth of data that can reveal long-term operational trends and potential failures in compliance.

Together, these modules offer a wide range of data analytics, which are increasingly necessary to run a streamlined, competitive grocery operation. Having a hierarchical view of all locations, with the data broken down in limitless scenarios and processes, provides a true picture of the environment and helps stores increase profits.

About ComplianceMate™

Through a patented combination of wireless temperature sensors, mobile technologies, and easy-to-use tools built for the modern commercial kitchen, ComplianceMate gives its users total control over workflows, food safety, and compliance in all types of foodservice establishments. Customers can make evidence-based decisions about kitchen processes and staff training. Users see a rapid ROI from significant labor and food waste savings, as well as improved audit scores.