US musical instrument retailer Guitar Center has partnered with RELEX Solutions to optimise its allocation and store replenishment planning.

The collaboration aims to bolster the efficiency of Guitar Center's network, which includes over 300 stores and multiple distribution centres throughout North America.

RELEX's AI-driven supply chain and retail planning solutions will foster better product availability while concurrently reducing inventory levels for its extensive range of over 7,000 stock-keeping units.

In addition to maintaining optimal stock levels, the company seeks to address the issues it faced with previous systems, which often resulted in excess inventory or stock shortages.

The new system will allow Guitar Center to synchronise its inventory more closely with consumer demand patterns.

Guitar Center merchandising and supply chain senior vice-president Remo Puccio said: “We selected RELEX for their proven expertise in the speciality retail sector and their advanced, AI-driven planning solution, which aligns seamlessly with our unique needs.

"Their established track record in retail gives us confidence in their ability to deliver results, and we look forward to enhancing our business performance through this collaboration.”

RELEX's platform is designed to provide real-time insights into inventory levels, enabling Guitar Center to make more informed and timely decisions regarding store replenishment.

This move is anticipated to reduce instances of stockouts and overstocking, ensuring customers have consistent access to desired products.

The automation facilitated by RELEX will also allow Guitar Center employees to shift their focus toward more strategic initiatives, thus improving overall operational efficiency within the company.

RELEX Solutions sales senior vice-president Keith Adams said: “Our flexible, AI-driven solutions are tailored to meet the complex demands of speciality retail. We’re confident this partnership will improve product availability across their stores while optimising inventory levels to drive efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

In December last year, Mexican toy retailer Grupo Juguetron selected RELEX Solutions to improve its operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience.