Managing Replenishment Of Custom-Made Merchandise

Does Christmas mean everything, or does it mean nothing? Do changing seasons register a blip on the radar? At Eye Care Centers of America (ECCA), which operates under the EyeMasters, Visionworks, and several other regional banners, demand forecasting doesn't quite line up with the seasonal needs of apparel, general, grocery, and other segments of retail. In fact, its more complex. Retailers in other segments could learn something from the ebb and flow of merchandise demand in this business. Increases in sales volume coincide with insurance benefits, and to a slightly lesser extent, back-to school season. Classic fast-fashion trends come into play. And no two fulfilled products are alike.