THRIVE Podcast - Episode 72 Notes

Episode Title: Convenience Store Success: Managing Inventory and Supply Chain

Host: Mike Hernandez

Episode Description: In this profit-boosting episode of Thrive, host Mike Hernandez reveals practical strategies for mastering inventory and supply chain management in your convenience store. Learn how to transform your inventory from a constant headache into a powerful profit driver with systems that ensure you have the right products at the right time—while keeping your cash flow healthy and your customers satisfied.

Key Topics Covered:

• Essential inventory control practices that prevent losses and optimize cash flow
• Advanced demand forecasting techniques to anticipate customer needs
• Systematic approaches to ordering and replenishment that save time and money
• Building productive vendor relationships that work in your favor
• Practical technology solutions that simplify inventory management

Episode Highlights:

• How weather forecasting and historical data helped increase sales by 40% during a heatwave
• The "Category Watch" system for weekly shrinkage monitoring of high-risk products
• The "Three-Strike Rule" for identifying and addressing dead stock
• The "Calendar Blueprint" for anticipating demand spikes and planning inventory accordingly
• The "Five-Point Check" system that takes just three minutes per delivery

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Implement the "Three-Point Check" receiving system to verify count, dates, and prices
2. Create color-coded expiration date stickers (red, yellow, green) to reduce expired product losses
3. Develop an "Event Impact Calendar" to anticipate local demand fluctuations
4. Apply the "Half-Full Rule" for display restocking to maintain appearance while enabling easier rotation
5. Use the "Three C's" approach (Clear, Consistent, Constructive) for more effective vendor relationships

Manager Challenge Question: Using the "Calendar Blueprint" system discussed in the episode, how would you integrate event impacts, weather effects, and seasonal variations to optimize your beverage inventory during summer months?

Listen to this episode to gain practical systems that can increase your profit margins by 2-3%, reduce out-of-stocks by up to 60%, and turn your inventory management from reactive to strategic.