Retailer's distribution, warehouse unit taps RedPrairie to develop standards, implement solutions at 17 DCs
Waukesha, WI — March 24, 2004 — The logistics services unit of retailing mainstay Sears has retained supply chain technology specialist RedPrairie to develop productivity standards and implement productivity management and performance measurement solutions at 17 distribution centers by the end of 2004.
Sears Logistics Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Roebuck and Co., provides distribution and warehousing services to Sears' approximately 870 full-line and 1,100 specialty stores in the United States.
Productivity management consists of engineered labor standards, productivity management software and change management consulting. By teaching employees how to properly do the tasks associated with their jobs, companies often achieve significant gains in productivity.
RedPrairie said its experience in retail and its Master Standard Data allow the company to provide knowledgeable assistance in defining those tasks. The software then monitors activities to uncover roadblocks to productivity that usually can be resolved through further training.
However, since the success of any new program is governed by the acceptance of the workforce, RedPrairie offers change management services to help companies include employees in these important endeavors.
John Jazwiec, RedPrairie company leader, said that the retail industry, with a high percentage of its costs tied to human resources, is a prime candidate for productivity improvement and has long been a key market for RedPrairie.
"We're pleased that a major retailer of Sears' stature has recognized the value of our productivity services and software approach," Jazwiec said.
Other retailers using RedPrairie's productivity management solution include SuperValu, Kroger Company, Wal-Mart, Safeway and online giant Amazon.com.
