How suppliers can align to retailers’ spring and summer seasonal demands
From egg-shaped candies at Easter to gardening tools in the spring, customer demands often change with the seasons. Spring and summer also inspire the launch of new product lines, targeted promotions and increased consumer spending, triggering demand fluctuations that...
Advancing food supply chain visibility: SPS Commerce partners with iFoodDS to simplify FSMA 204 compliance
Modern food supply chains need enhanced traceability. Learn how SPS Commerce and iFoodDS have partnered to simplify FSMA 204 compliance.
4 key trends reshaping the food supply chain in 2025 and beyond
As we reflect on 2024 and look toward the coming year, the food distribution sector continues to experience a seismic shift. Four critical trends have emerged at the forefront of this change, driving innovation and reshaping industry standards. 1. Digital...
Building sustainable retail supply chains through supplier collaboration
Let's face it: managing retail supply chains has never been more challenging. Consumers expect products to be available exactly when and where they want them. They also want full supply chain transparency, from how suppliers source materials to how retailers move...
Optimizing RTV: The key to smarter supply chain management
Optimizing RTV: The key to smarter supply chain management
E-invoicing: all the basics you need to know
E-invoicing hasn’t quite hit its stride in the U.S., but it’s certainly a hot topic in the supply chain industry. E-invoicing enables more businesses to comply with new guidelines and business practices, adopt new technologies and support faster, more efficient...
7 fresh priorities for grocers in 2025
From automation to shifting consumer values, major forces are reshaping grocery retail. Here are seven trends set to influence the grocery industry in 2025. 1. Digital transformation gets real Remember when digital transformation was merely a hot topic in the...
A comprehensive overview of manufacturing business problems
Manufacturing is a complex industry. When you’re working with suppliers, co-manufacturers, retailers and customers, there are dozens of areas where communication can break down and obstacles arise. That’s why SPS Commerce provides solutions to enhance collaboration...
The importance of effective demand planning
Just as an orchestra requires each instrument to work harmoniously, effective demand planning is key to a manufacturer’s ability to produce quality products efficiently. Missing one element? Challenges will arise. What is demand planning? Demand planning is a process...
How manufacturers can eliminate the stress of frequent change
Think of a house of cards. Each piece that you add to the tower plays an extremely important role in supporting the others, but the failure of one always leads to a total collapse. You can view suppliers and their relationship with manufacturing partners in a very...
How to combat production delays with a supply chain solution
No one likes waiting, especially when it comes to getting your products to your customers on time. Unfortunately, production delays are sometimes inevitable. These delays create a ripple effect, disrupting schedules and customer shipments. Missed shipments can affect...
Micro-seasons are reshaping grocery retail
The aroma of cinnamon-spiced lattes wafts through grocery aisles in August. Heart-shaped chocolate displays appear just as New Year's resolution shoppers reach for their protein shakes. Welcome to the new era of grocery retail, where every day is a potential food...
Accelerating growth with invoice financing
Quick financing can be crucial for expanding product lines, investing in inventory or boosting real-time marketing efforts, and it can help alleviate disruptions as they pop up. For suppliers facing common cash flow challenges, invoice financing offers a seamless and...
A collaborative approach to supplier performance management
A collaborative approach to supplier performance management Managing supplier relationships remains one of the biggest challenges in retail. Even with sophisticated supply chain technology, many organizations struggle with fundamental supplier performance issues:...
Supply chain performance monitoring: What’s at stake?
Recent tech advances make it possible to track supply chain performance in real time by continuously analyzing data—and logistics leaders are taking notice. As global trade fragments and international supply chains see rising disruption from inflation and climate...
4 supplier collaboration strategies that boost retail brand loyalty
Brand loyalty isn't what it used to be. Customer expectations are increasing by 30% annually, according to brand researchers. Loyalty hinges on creating emotional connections that bridge the gap between customer expectations and experience. Through these emotional...
RFID: Everything you need to know
In today’s supply chain, suppliers, retailers, 3PLs and the like are all looking to optimize their technology in a way that boosts their business and helps their bottom line. One technology that retailers are leveraging is RFID. RFID technology can boost efficiency in...
Tackling omnichannel order management with Shopify Plus EDI integration
Shopify Plus EDI integration at a glance Explore how Shopify integration syncs orders and inventory Learn how automation reduces manual errors Discover scalable growth for online retailers See why SPS is a leader in Shopify EDI solutions Have you ever wondered, “Is...
What is operational flexibility?
Across industries, adaptability is essential in today’s market, and the ability to adjust to new disruptions separates highly successful businesses from their less-successful competitors. The drive to improve the elasticity of complex, highly regulated operations has...
Unlock the power of invoice financing for seasonal demand peaks
Seasonal demand spikes can bring tremendous growth opportunities—but they can also bring cash flow challenges. As operating costs and inventory needs increase, delayed customer payments can stretch your liquidity. That’s why SPS offers a seamless solution to unlock...
The 5 biggest demand forecasting challenges in supply chains – and how to fix them
AT A GLANCE Explore key issues impacting accurate forecasting. Find out how data silos create visibility problems. See how automation enhances forecasting accuracy. Delve into technology-driven demand planning strategies. Unbalanced inventory levels can have big...
6 essential peak season strategies for 3PLs in 2024
The familiar buzz of peak season is in the air. For retailers and their suppliers, Q4 sales typically represent 30% to 40% of annual revenue—sometimes even 50%. This translates to a tidal wave of demand for logistics services, one that can overwhelm unprepared...
Navigating the evolving landscape of global logistics
The world of logistics never stands still. We sat down with Tracey Ortiz, Director of Product Management, to get her take on where things are headed. With over 20 years of experience in supply chain management and a strategic approach to process improvement, Tracey...
Avoid these mistakes this holiday season: A guide from SPS Commerce
The holidays are a hectic time for all businesses, no matter your size or output. As sales go up, suppliers face increased channel traffic, spikes in orders and difficulty managing downstream partner challenges. Already dreading this year’s holiday rush? By selecting...
Everything you need to know if you’re running Microsoft Dynamics GP
If you’ve heard the recent news that Microsoft will be limiting the support for Dynamics GP and you’re one of the companies still running Great Plains, you may be scrambling to understand your options. Microsoft has announced they will provide support through...
Three takeaways from SuiteWorld 2024
SPS Commerce was thrilled to attend and participate in SuiteWorld 2024, marking an incredible ten years of this industry-leading event! As a long-time partner of Oracle NetSuite, it’s always an honor to be part of the innovation and community this show brings...
How top suppliers overcome common cash flow challenges
No matter how efficient your operations are, cash flow challenges can disrupt your ability to meet obligations and seize opportunities. While advanced systems and tools can help streamline processes, they don't eliminate the need for proactive cash flow management....
Is your supply chain FSMA 204 ready?
AT A GLANCE Explore readiness steps for FSMA 204 compliance. Find out benefits of digital traceability systems. See how risk reduction through proactive compliance. Delve into SPS Commerce as a food industry partner. Is FSMA 204 compliance keeping you up at night?...
What is EDI? A supplier’s guide to navigating document exchange
Congratulations on catching the interest of a buyer who wants your product! Breaking into the retail market can be daunting for emerging brands, especially if you've been primarily focused on direct-to-consumer (D2C) channels. As you sift through the vendor agreement,...
Supply chain digitization: everything you need to know to get ahead
Many of today’s customers run lean operations to boost operational and cost efficiency. Though the priorities may look different depending on the industry, one way your customers are achieving leaner operations is by adopting automation in every corner of their supply...
How to nail your next buyer meeting: A supplier’s guide
As a growing supplier, securing a buyer meeting with a major retailer is a significant milestone. However, turning that opportunity into a long-term partnership requires preparation and a deep understanding of what buyers seek. Once you’ve met with the buyer, things...
ERP migrations: 4 challenges for suppliers
It’s challenging for a supplier to go through an ERP change or migration, especially when you work with a large volume of major retailers. The process is complex and requires a strategic approach to manage various aspects, including integration, change management,...
The basics of working capital financial products: enhancing cashflow
It can be challenging to keep adequate cash in the bank, especially when you're growing rapidly or experiencing sales volatility. Working capital management is essential to running your business efficiently and paving the way for growth. What is working capital?...
Become an inventory optimization expert
Today’s supply chain is full of disruptions that are often completely out of suppliers’ control. With unexpected delivery and procurement obstacles, it can be difficult to secure the right amount of on-hand inventory, resulting in overstocked or understocked...
Five signs it may be time to switch to a full-service solution
If you feel like your current EDI solution is lacking when it comes to things like scalability, pricing or support, it may be time to switch providers. But what does that mean exactly? How do you know when it’s time to retire a solution you’ve been relying on? Let’s...
The ultimate EDI guide for Acumatica
Staying ahead of tomorrow’s retail demands means mastering efficiency and accuracy. This is where Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) can shine, revolutionizing how businesses exchange information. It streamlines communication, minimizes errors and speeds up transaction...
Diving into supply chain disruptions
Supply chain disruptions are often unpredictable and can be costly to the supplier—not only in terms of money, but also due to the valuable time and resources required to overcome these obstacles. In today’s competitive, global supply chain, suppliers continue to face...
Sync up for success: tips to tackle peak season
As we approach another holiday shopping season, retailers and their third-party logistics partners (3PLs) are gearing up for the annual surge in demand. In a recent webinar hosted by Supply Chain Now, the SPS team shared valuable insights on how 3PLs can prepare for...
4 proven strategies businesses are using to drive growth in 2024
AT A GLANCE Find out four strategies including data analytics and automation. See how supply chain optimization improves competitiveness. Delve into customer experience as a growth driver. Emphasize adopting technology for long-term success. We recently wrapped up our...
How to become an omnichannel 3PL company
Consumers migrated to eCommerce during the pandemic, but brick-and-mortar retail continues to prove its enduring appeal. Now more than ever, logistics firms must transform into omnichannel 3PL companies. Here are a few highlights from our recent webinar with Supply...
Five considerations for Microsoft Dynamics 365 EDI
If you’re a Microsoft Dynamics 365 user through-and-through, you’re already used to a certain level of support, the latest technology and product accessibility. Don’t you wish all your tech was as simple? Whether you’re a tried-and-true Dynamics AX user or have been...
Solving the excess inventory dilemma
Excess inventory is a common challenge many suppliers face, often arising from unexpected shifts in demand, inaccurate forecasts or sudden changes in market trends. Whether it's a result of unseasonal weather, supply chain disruptions or unpredictable events like a...
What is omnichannel fulfillment?
Today, 21% of retail sales are completed online. By 2026, it’s expected that number will jump to 25%. For suppliers, it can be challenging to meet the omnichannel supply chain requirements set by retailers who expect them to support various management models and sales...
Strategic inventory control: 7 metrics that matter
AT A GLANCE Discover critical inventory KPIs including turnover and DSI. Learn how metrics drive better stock decisions. Understand how data reduces holding costs and stockouts. Gain insight into tech solutions for real-time inventory tracking. By setting key...
What you need to know about FSMA 204
Imagine you’re running a natural food store, filled with organic produce and specialty items your customers love. Business is going well, but as you look ahead, you see the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) mandates coming into effect in 2026. These new FDA rules...
How online retailers keep return cost low
An estimated 30 percent of all products ordered online are returned—that’s three to four times the return rate of products bought in-store. In 2023, consumers returned $817 billion worth of products—that's over 16% of total retail sales for the year. Returns may be...
Discover why lack of data is a top supplier challenge in 2024
AT A GLANCE Discover how analytics enable smarter decision-making. Learn benefits of real-time reporting for inventory and sales. Understand how data improves profitability and efficiency. Gain insight into data-driven retail strategies for growth. In early 2024, SPS...
Understanding Sell-Through Rate
AT A GLANCE Discover sell-through rate and why it’s critical for inventory management and product performance analysis. Learn how to calculate sell-through rate to monitor retail efficiency. Understand how monitoring sell-through helps reduce excess stock and improve...
Everything you need to know if you’re running Microsoft Dynamics AX
With Microsoft’s decision to sunset AX, many companies are struggling to decide what they need to do next to plan a successful migration. Here’s what you need to know when you’re planning a migration, whether you’re looking for more capabilities or just need more...
Brands struggle to optimize for eCommerce
When it comes to online sales and distribution channels, shipping pallets and cases of products off to retailers isn’t the only option for suppliers anymore. Vendors normally send their products to a retailer for in-store and online sales, but more and more, suppliers will handle the fulfillment on their behalf and drop ship the item to the consumer.
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