Companies in the fast moving consumer goods industry increasingly look for technologies to improve customer satisfaction while reducing costs at the same time. A technology allowing to raise the availability of products on the retailers' shelves while providing cost reduction opportunities is automatic store replenishment (ASR). It is an intelligent software that automatically places inventory replenishment orders.

Drawing on several interviews and a comprehensive statistical analysis, Alfred Angerer proves the effectiveness of such ASR systems. The following questions are adressed:
" Which types of ASR system exist?
" What are the exact benefits of ASR systems?
" Which variables influence the ASR performance?
" Which ASR system is best suited for each product?
" How does a company best implement ASR systems?

Dr. Alfred Angerer ist wissenschaftlicher Assistent bei Prof. Dr. Daniel Corsten am Kühne-Institut für Logistik der Universität St. Gallen.