Asda is embarking on a major business transformation programme following its £6.8bn acquisition in February, boosting its relationship with Blue Yonder to implement a raft of new tech, including artificial intelligence powered forecasting and big data analytics.
The strategy will see the supermarket giant move away from Walmart legacy systems using software as a service (SaaS) capabilities within Blue Yonder’s Luminate Planning, Commerce, Logistics and Control Tower solutions, which run on the Luminate Platform.
These technologies will allow Asda to use machine learning to estimate consumer demand and calculate business impact and risk, as well as for optimising pricing strategies, reducing excess stock and avoiding waste.
In addition, a connected platform will be used to improve efficiency and value throughout the retailer’s omnichannel retail business and provide workforce management capabilities for workers at Asda’s stores and distribution centres.
Asda chief information officer Carl Dawson said: “We are embarking on a large scale, exciting business transformation project to build our future, in which we want to work with the very best retail technology providers in the market with proven experience and world-class capabilities.
“We are looking forward to implementing this project with our strategic partner Blue Yonder, as we continue to build a fast, effective and agile business.”
Blue Yonder president, EMEA, Johan Reventberg added: “We have built a strong relationship with Asda over the years, and we have consistently demonstrated how our advanced capabilities can help them fulfil their potential and drive value, early and often.
“Not only are our solutions a fit for their long-term goals, so is our culture and our values. We are honoured to embark on this exciting journey and look forward to bringing value to both Asda, their partners and their customers.”
In July, Asda appointed KFC chief marketing officer Meg Farren as chief customer officer, as the chain’s new owners reshape the executive team. Joining this month, she will lead the development and strategy of the brand’s total customer proposition, marketing and management of its brands, leading a team of more than 250, based in Leeds and Lutterworth.
The supermarket’s advertising and marketing is handled by Havas London, which was appointed in May. Publicis Groupe sister agency Spark Foundry runs media planning and buying. It has also worked with Jaywing.
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