8th & Walton’s Sean Presley discusses the three things that Walmart suppliers should cover in their check-ins with their replenishment manager.
Lainie: If a Walmart supplier only has time for one quick touch base each month with their replenishment manager, what should they absolutely be sure to cover in that conversation?
Sean: I’d break it into three main buckets.
The first is overall performance. If you’re meeting monthly, start with a review of the last month: Your in-stock levels, forecast accuracy, and any risks. Being upfront with Walmart about how the business is performing is always the best first step. That includes discussing any OTIF issues or other performance challenges.
The second is risks and opportunities. With upcoming modular changes, are there any potential risks? Make sure everyone understands the current status. Also, look for demand shifts. A proactive supplier checks POS and order forecasts every week, so if you see an item selling 30-40% above forecast, bring it up during the meeting.
The third bucket is actions. If you do have items that are overperforming, call them out, but also bring a recommendation. That might mean proposing a forecast adjustment, safety stock increase, or other solution. I like to say it’s the “recommendation plus the ask.” You’ve identified the problem, offered a solution, and now you’re asking to move forward.
Getting everyone aligned before you leave that meeting, with clarity on next steps, is what sets exceptional suppliers apart from those who are more reactive.
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