A delicate balancing act

Customers expect the products they want to be on the shelves or available online 24/7. At the same time, our depots can't function properly if they're overstocked. Performing this delicate balancing act is the job of our Supply Analysts - and an extremely important and demanding job it is too. With over 100 colleagues in this critical area its one of the largest teams in Asda House, with one of the biggest contributions to Asda's performance.

Supply Analysts often work many months in advance, for example when planning for the Christmas period or for major events like the World Cup. The role can also involve anticipating trends in the early stages and making sure that we can get the right products on the shelves at the right price and in the right volume. We work with suppliers, stores and depots to get a real grip on inventory and replenishment issues. With millions of customers wanting millions and millions of products every day, you'll appreciate why supplying is demanding.

Delivering every day low cost

Our Merchandise Planning team, work at an amazing pace to deliver product ranges all the way from the manufacturer to delighting customers on the shop floor. Driving sales through excellent merchandising across all of our stores is a tough task, but it's an essential part of delivering every day low cost. With an eye for spotting sales opportunities, our merchandisers highlight new ways to drive sales and influence the layout of Asda stores. From the beginning of the process they develop a balanced commercial plan working alongside key Buying and Supply colleagues.

The team apply learnings from past performance, position to the business the level of risk on new trends and manage the execution of the financial plan. In season, they review regularly to make sure the plan is on schedule to be delivered whilst managing within inventory framework.

At the end of the season they apply solid commercial judgment to ensure the right level of markdown spend is used whilst constantly working hard to deliver more profitable return on stock investment.