The Co-op kicks off RBT programme with cloud tech pilot

The Co-op is testing out a new cloud-based supplier collaboration portal, Co-op Connect.

A pilot is taking place in 24 stores, across five categories (soft drinks, salads, paper, pizza and beer) with 15 suppliers, including Coca-Cola and Heineken, and around 300 stock-keeping units.

The initiative is the first stage of a Retail Business Transformation programme (RBT), which will introduce new technology to improve ranging, stock holding, availability, and bring about more accurate forecasting.

“The RBT programme is an integral part of Co-op’s ongoing success, as we look to ensure that the technology we are using will future-proof the business for many years to come,” says Michael Fletcher, Chief Commercial Officer at the Co-op Group.

“This pilot will allow us to work with suppliers to ensure that it is working perfectly before we roll it out elsewhere, and we are already getting positive feedback that the new portal is faster and easier to navigate Investing in new technology will allow us to grow the business, helping to deliver a stronger Co-op that will result in stronger communities.”