A recent global IBM survey showed that 41% of Brazilian companies use some form of artificial intelligence in their daily operations. When we talk about inventory, it is used to establish the ideal amount of goods, controlling what and when to store and unlocking cash flow. After all, meeting market demands and keeping only the essentials in warehouses is a complex task, especially considering the variables of each business.
Challenges faced
The modern consumer demands fast deliveries and personalized products, requiring large retailers to have hundreds of SKUs in a highly volatile market. An organized warehouse requires the identification and classification of the most important items (ABC analysis), as well as an understanding of how to position the quantities and parameters of each item along the supply chain.supply chainIn this context, if the demand forecast is incorrect or if the analytical tools are inadequate, the process becomes even more difficult. Many companies still use simple spreadsheets and are unable to handle large volumes of data or the algorithms needed for optimization, facing challenges such as seasonality, obsolescence, logistics, and production.
AI as an ally – Benefits
1. Inventory optimization
Among the main advantages of using AI is inventory optimization in order to improve warehouse organization and operate with lower inventory levels, freeing up space and reducing operational expenses related to storage and product management. Thus, internal processes become more agile and less prone to errors, which translates into savings of time and resources.
2. More accurate predictions
AI provides accurate predictions, often with real-time structured data, as it analyzes large volumes of sales and trend information, as well as discussions on social media. This reduces the risk of excess or shortage of goods, improves the replenishment process, and enables quick adaptability to market changes, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and ensuring that items are available when and where they are needed. Furthermore, an effective inventory organization provides detailed and up-to-date data, improving decision-making. In this way, companies can make strategic adjustments at the right time, making their operations more efficient and better meeting the demands of their audience.
3. Unexpected demand and seasonality
Responding quickly and accurately to issues such as scarcity and unexpected demand also becomes easier with the help of AI. It generates information that considers seasonality and favors stock adjustment to meet sales peaks, which are driven by commercial dates at specific times of the year. This allows companies to prepare in advance, ensuring that products are available when customers need them most.
In summary, by using AI for inventory optimization, companies gain a significant competitive advantage. This favors operating with leaner warehouses, forecasting demand before major commercial dates, reducing costs, improving customer satisfaction, and increasing profitability. In the current dynamic business environment, adopting innovative solutions is essential to stand out from the competition.
