Training Course on Retail Industry Supply Chain
Overview
- The retail supply chain is a complex, dynamic system that connects suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to deliver products efficiently to consumers.
- This course explores the end-to-end retail supply chain, focusing on logistics, inventory management, sourcing, distribution, and internationalisation.
- Participants will gain practical knowledge to optimise supply chain operations, reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and respond to global market challenges.
- Emphasis on real-world retail scenarios, including quick response systems, supplier relationships, and technology integration.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the fundamental components and phases of retail supply chain management: planning, sourcing, manufacturing, distribution, and returns.
- Analyse the challenges and trends impacting retail logistics and supply chains in a globalised market.
- Develop skills in inventory control, purchasing negotiation, warehouse and distribution management.
- Explore international sourcing and cross-cultural distribution practices.
- Apply supply chain strategies to improve organisational efficiency and customer responsiveness.
- Use case studies and role plays to simulate decision-making in retail supply chain contexts.
Training Methodology
- Combination of lectures, interactive discussions, and group work to encourage active learning.
- Case studies (30%) focusing on real retail supply chain challenges and solutions.
- Role plays (30%) to practice negotiation, supplier management, and problem-solving.
- Conceptual frameworks (10%) to build foundational knowledge.
- Practical techniques (30%) including inventory management tools and warehouse software demonstrations.
- Pre- and post-course assessments to measure knowledge acquisition.
- Use of multimedia presentations and self-questionnaires to reinforce learning.
Organisational and Personal Impact
- Organisations will benefit from improved supply chain efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced ability to meet customer demand promptly.
- Participants will gain competencies that increase their value as supply chain professionals, enabling career advancement.
- Enhanced collaboration across departments and with suppliers, leading to stronger partnerships and better risk management.
- Ability to implement best practices in logistics, inventory control, and international sourcing to support business growth.
- Empowered decision-making through data-driven insights and strategic planning skills.
Target Audience
- Retail supply chain managers and coordinators seeking to deepen their operational knowledge.
- Procurement and purchasing professionals involved in supplier negotiations.
- Warehouse and distribution supervisors aiming to optimise logistics processes.
- Sales and operations planners responsible for demand forecasting and inventory control.
- New entrants to retail supply chain roles requiring a comprehensive introduction.
- Executives and analysts interested in understanding supply chain impacts on retail performance.
Course Outline
Day 1: Retail Logistics – Changes and Challenges
- The logistics task in retail and evolving market pressures
- Retail logistics and supply chain transportation fundamentals
- Buyer-seller relationships and collaboration in the supply chain
- Quick response and efficient customer response systems
- Role and impact of Logistics Service Providers (LSPs)
Day 2: Product Life Cycle (PLC) and Sales Strategies
- Understanding the five stages of the Product Life Cycle
- Sales strategy implications at each PLC stage
- Identifying substitute and similar products
- Adapting sales approaches to product lifecycle dynamics
Day 3: Purchasing and Inventory Management
- Negotiation techniques with suppliers
- Evaluating stock as an asset versus a liability
- Merchandise sequencing and stock control methods
- Physical stock management and stock accounting principles
Day 4: Warehouse and Distribution Management
- Warehouse functions, layout, and procedures
- Distribution planning and performance metrics
- Introduction to Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
- Best practices in inventory handling and order fulfilment
Day 5: Internationalisation of the Retail Supply Chain
- Strategies for international sourcing and supplier selection
- Cultural differences in distribution and logistics practices
- Managing international logistics challenges and compliance
- Case studies on global retail supply chain success stories
Conclusion
- Mastery of retail supply chain fundamentals equips professionals to drive operational excellence and competitive advantage.
- The course empowers participants to implement strategic improvements that enhance customer satisfaction and profitability.
- Organisations investing in supply chain training build resilience against market volatility and global disruptions.
- Continuous learning and adaptation are key to thriving in the fast-evolving retail landscape.
- Participants are encouraged to apply insights gained and pursue ongoing development to stay ahead in retail supply chain management.