Circular Supply Chain Expertise in Demand Planning with Gain The Edge Socks

Background

Gain the Edge are a fast-growing online brand selling premium sports socks and accessories, sales accelerated very quickly in the UK, Europe and the US. 

The brand faced challenges with:

• Demand Volatility: Consumer preferences and purchasing patterns were highly unpredictable

• High Inventory Levels: To prevent stockouts, GTE maintained large safety stocks, leading to excess inventory.

• Limited Forecasting: Orders were placed to meet supplier MOQ rather than future demand

• Supplier MOQs: Purchasing was in full 40ft containers which would cause a massive spike in stock.

Solution

Circular Supply Chain implemented supply and demand planning processes using a rolling 12 month forecast and OTB principles introducing a monthly purchase programme to maintain availability and reduce overall stock levels.  An excel model was built using historical data, real-time market trends, and external factors like weather patterns, promotions, and competitor activity to predict demand.

Results

Inventory reduction of 25% with 9 months and availability increase of 10% to 95%

Forecast accuracy measures introduced with the fulfilment partners.

Improved Supplier MOQ to enable smaller more frequent stock deliveries

Increased Customer Satisfaction aligning inventory with demand improved order fulfilment rates and customer satisfaction.