For many Walmart suppliers, improving in-stock performance isn’t about solving one big problem — it’s about untangling several smaller ones that add up. That’s exactly what one of our PathFinders Bronze clients, a frozen food supplier working in the perishable network, discovered while collaborating with 8th & Walton expert Joel on a closer look at their replenishment process.
This engagement was well suited for PathFinders Bronze because the supplier already had strong internal execution capabilities — they needed clarity, not ongoing management.
The client’s challenge was familiar to some in the perishable category: on paper, their metrics looked off. OTIF (On-Time, In-Full) scores suggested unfilled deliveries even though there were appointments and gate in dates, yet internal systems like NOVA told a different story — POs were delivering in full, albeit late. This, combined with under forecasted product, caused the supplier’s in-stock level to hover around 95%, just below target
“It was one of those situations where nothing was obviously broken, but several small issues were working against each other,” Joel explained.
Small Fixes, Big Impact
Through a detailed review of order timing and delivery data, Joel and the supplier uncovered a hidden inefficiency. The supplier was receiving small purchase orders scattered throughout the week, which made fulfillment costly and inefficient for a perishable product line.
“Imagine trying to ship five cases on a refrigerated truck instead of 50,” Joel noted. “It’s not only inefficient, it creates pressure to cancel those POs, which then affects in-stock numbers and fill rate performance.”
Working together, they adjusted the review days (or order days) from five per week down to one. This change consolidated orders into larger, more manageable shipments, reducing the risk of cancellation and helping the supplier plan for steadier delivery rhythms. Beyond improving efficiency, this shift also supports more sustainable operations by reducing the number of under-filled refrigerated trucks on the road — lowering fuel use, emissions, and overall waste in the perishable supply chain.
Although it’s early, the change is already showing promise — and more importantly, it’s giving the supplier a clearer picture of how small procedural tweaks can drive measurable improvement.
Understanding the PathFinders Bronze Experience
The PathFinders Bronze tier is designed for suppliers who want expert guidance without the full-service, hands-on management that comes with Silver or Gold levels. As Joel describes it, “At Bronze, the supplier is doing the work, but I’m helping them find the path forward — like a guide.” The supplier retained ownership of execution, while Joel focused on identifying root causes, validating data, and recommending specific, actionable changes.
In this case, Joel identified the issues, offered actionable recommendations, and equipped the supplier to work directly with Walmart’s replenishment and logistics teams to implement solutions. That guidance helped the client address short-term challenges while also understanding how to navigate larger systemic factors — like forecasting accuracy and appointment scheduling limits at perishable distribution centers.
Joel also reviewed data from Walmart’s Root Cause Out-of-Stock dashboard, which breaks out the drivers behind in-stock gaps using basis points. The dashboard confirmed what experience already suggested — but it was expert interpretation that helped the supplier understand which issues were within their control and which required a different approach.
By combining Walmart’s reporting tools with expert interpretation, Joel helped the supplier see the complete picture — and take the right next steps.
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Collaborating for Continuous Improvement
While the client’s OTIF challenges can’t be solved overnight, the collaboration has already made a difference in how the supplier approaches problem-solving. They’ve become more proactive in their communication with Walmart’s replenishment managers, better equipped to interpret conflicting data, and more confident in their understanding of how the perishable network operates.
“Sometimes,” Joel shared, “it’s not about finding a single fix — it’s about cleaning up a dozen small processes so the system can finally work the way it’s supposed to.”
That approach reflects the spirit of the PathFinders program: helping suppliers move from confusion to clarity, one insight at a time.
Why It Matters
At 8th & Walton, we know that even experienced suppliers face complex challenges when working within Walmart’s systems. Our PathFinders program was built to simplify that journey — providing personalized expertise, education, and actionable insights at every service level.
For this frozen food supplier, PathFinders Bronze delivered focused expertise at the right moment — helping them correct course, regain confidence, and move forward with clearer execution. Whether you’re managing replenishment in a perishable category or optimizing seasonal planning, small improvements — made with the right guidance — can lead to lasting results.
Let’s Talk About Your Needs
If your team is facing replenishment, forecasting, OTIF, or in-stock challenges, complete the form below and we will be glad to assess your needs. We’ll help you understand what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what levers will create the biggest impact.
