Real-Time Inventory Management in Grocery

Real-time inventory management is reshaping how grocery retailers manage availability, labor, and store execution.

On the latest RETHINK Retail Podcast, DeAnn Campbell speaks with Aidan Mittra, Co-Founder of OrderGrid, about how real-time, location- and expiry-aware inventory gives retailers true operational visibility that drives better product availability, reduced waste, and stronger margin protection across stores and distribution networks.

Key Takeaways

• Inventory quality matters: Accurate counts are not enough. Items must be findable, sellable, within date, and in the right location to support profitable operations.
• Automated replenishment: Demand-aware ordering reduces manual work for store teams and enables faster, more consistent ordering.
• Perishables management: Granular tracking and demand forecasting help minimize waste and maximize sales.
• Inventory as an early indicator: Real-time data can surface operational and margin risks before they appear in sales reports.

This episode explores how real-time inventory can form the foundation for more predictable, disciplined grocery operations and help position inventory as a measurable business advantage.