Commerce solutions provider Rithum has launched SupplyExplorer, a solution that aims to help retailers identify and connect with suppliers.
Rithum said the new offering uses its network data alongside AI-supported “enrichment” to assist with quicker supplier discovery and sourcing decisions.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
At the centre of the platform is Merchant Match, a feature that delivers selected supplier recommendations based on a retailer’s product categories, growth plans and operational needs.
SupplyExplorer also includes Network Profiles, supplier-managed profiles that outline company capabilities, catalogue ranges and performance within Rithum’s network.
These profiles are designed to give retailers a clearer view of a supplier’s suitability and track record before beginning discussions, with the intention of reducing assessment periods and sourcing risk.
Rithum retailers president Blaine Nielsen said: “Supplier discovery has remained one of the most manual and fragmented parts of e-commerce, forcing merchandising teams to rely on disconnected data, time-consuming research, and guesswork to find the right partners.
“That slows down assortment expansion, creates missed revenue opportunities, and makes it harder for retailers to keep pace with changing customer demand. With SupplyExplorer, we are helping retailers act more quickly and confidently by bringing structure, visibility, and intelligence to how they identify and connect with the partners that will drive their next phase of growth.”
Rithum said the new solution is intended to tackle persistent issues for merchandising teams such as disconnected supplier information, time-consuming research and inefficient outreach.
The company noted that these problems can slow category expansion and reduce the ability to react to market openings.
According to Rithum, SupplyExplorer allows retailers to simplify supplier discovery, take a more data-based approach to sourcing and widen product assortments in both existing and new categories.
Earlier this year, US speciality retailer Lane Bryant partnered with Rithum to introduce a new dropshipping programme for its US e-commerce operations.
Under the partnership, Lane Bryant joined Rithum’s Commerce Solutions network, allowing the US-based brand partners to list, sell and fulfil products directly through Lane Bryant’s website.
