Retail icon Marks & Spencer (M&S) is modernising its in-store Space, Range and Display (SRD) capabilities so the company can adapt to ongoing supply chain disruptions and ensure the physical space in its stores is being used as effectively as possible

M&S has teamed with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to develop and implement a cloud-based SRD platform using Blue Yonder Category Management and Azure Data Bricks to optimise store space, improve stock management efficiency, address the retailer’s GSCOP (Grocery Suppliers Code of Practice) ranking and enhance customer experience.

The SRD platform seamlessly integrates supply chain, store, and merchandising systems, to provide M&S with complete visibility of all available product lines, immediately inform systems operations and planning teams at scale. The stock range is now always accurate and the integration with supply chain systems means no delay between the planogram and ranges listed on the supply chain system. Shop floor space is now maximised, and any unexpected supply chain issues can be quickly resolved. 

Rob Barnes, CTO, food and retail at M&S, said: “The new SRD platform is a key piece of technology that is important for working out what to put where inside our stores, which products we should sell, and to what extent. All we got from day one was benefits and that doesn't come by accident - it comes from two great teams working together very effectively to deliver a successful programme.”