BFG Supply Co. leverages AI for seasonal demand challenges with new partner RELEX Solutions

Green industry distributor BFG Supply Co. has selected RELEX Solutions, a provider of unified supply chain and retail planning solutions, to elevate its demand forecasting capabilities and operations planning.

BFG Supply is adopting the advanced supply chain technology to bolster forecasting, inventory management and customer service. The selection enhances BFG Supply's demand forecasting process, which it said will positively impact all of its distribution centers across the U.S. Using RELEX is expected to yield more precise demand forecasts, leading to better customer service and more effective inventory management.

RELEX Solutions provides a unified supply chain and retail planning platform that aligns and optimizes demand, merchandising, supply chain, operations and production planning across the end-to-end value chain. RELEX's machine learning and AI solutions provide the crucial visibility BFG needs to optimize inventory, operations and customer service, while aligning supply chain strategy with its rapid growth.

Facing that continuous growth, both organically and through acquisitions, BFG Supply recognized the need for cutting-edge demand forecasting technology to maintain its leadership in the highly seasonal green industry. The previous supply chain management methods were becoming insufficient for the evolving demands of its business and customer base.

"As we expand, it's crucial to have a robust and scalable supply chain platform that aligns with our growth strategy," says BFG Supply CIO Chris DeMeester. "The RELEX machine-learning forecasting solution stands out for its ease of use, configurability and transparent output. It's precisely what we need to support our strategic objectives."

"Our experience with the unique demands of the green industry makes us a perfect fit for BFG Supply Co., a company with over half a century of expertise in gardening and plant life. They required a solution that is more than a 'Black Box' — something they can understand, work with and trust. We are thrilled to provide them with such a solution," says Keith Adams, senior vice president for North America at RELEX Solutions.

BFG Supply is working with RetSci to implement the RELEX forecasting solution. RetSci's expertise in forecasting and record of using hybrid delivery methodologies with a wide array of customers will allow BFG Supply to achieve its ROI quickly, the company said.

“RetSci brings deep experience with demand planning and data science to every engagement. Combining that expertise with RELEX has become a powerful growth tool for retailers and wholesalers alike. We look forward to seeing the forecast accuracy and process improvements help BFG optimize their inventory and meet customers' needs very soon,” says RetSci COO Bill Zacher.