Modernizing Demand Forecasting Across 90 Stores
Regional retailer Running Supply Inc., known as Runnings, is deploying an artificial intelligence-powered platform from Relex Solutions to unify demand planning and inventory replenishment across its retail network. According to coverage by Supply Chain Dive, the business operates 90 stores and five distribution centers across 12 states spanning the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast regions.
The project aims to consolidate store and distribution center ordering into a single, shared demand forecast. The software calculates daily ordering schedules by evaluating key demand drivers, including seasonal shifts and planned promotional events. Systems integrator and retail consultancy RetSci is leading the software implementation as project manager and business consultant.
Moving ERP Workflows to Exception-Based Automation
Although Runnings' existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) system contains baseline forecasting capabilities, management sought dedicated machine learning tools to automate routine purchasing. Terry Kriz, director of information technology at Runnings, told Supply Chain Dive that the company targeted automated workflows to eliminate the need for manual review on standard stock orders.
Under the new operational model, staff members focus strictly on exceptions to established buying rules. For instance, if the system identifies a large or unexpected shift in projected demand, internal teams review the flag prior to order release. This approach allows Runnings to scale store operations without adding administrative overhead across its distribution facilities in Rome, New York; Marshall, Minnesota; Kentland, Indiana; Pierre, South Dakota; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Multi-Phase Rollout Target Set for Mid-2027
The enterprise rollout, which kicked off during the summer, is scheduled to deploy in structured stages. Initial phases focus on store-level forecasting and replenishment, followed immediately by distribution center inventory management. Both core modules are scheduled to go live by mid-2027.
Following the initial inventory deployment, Runnings plans to roll out modules for pricing, promotions, assortment planning, and floor space layout. Similar supply chain planning systems from Relex have been adopted by other major retail operators, including Dollar General, Lowe's, and Bed Bath & Beyond parent company Neighborhood Intelligence.