Retailers need to clean up

The Global Data Synchronisation (GDS) Network is an Internet-based supply chain initiative that was founded by two international standards groups; UCC (Uniform Code Council) and EAN International.  Industry heavyweights, including Tesco, Asda Wallmart, Proctor & Gamble, Unilever, Cadbury Trebor Bassett and Kraft, are among the retailers and suppliers calling for other industry players to sign up to the GDS Network.  However, if so many companies are to synchronise their data, it is crucial that it is clean, accurate and up-to-date in order for GDS to work effectively.

Currently, the information which appears when products are scanned differs according to the retailer, but GDS would mean the same standardised data is used on all products, which should cut supply costs by millions.  Standardising product codes across the whole supply chain has significant advantages – the relationship between the supplier and the stores would be streamlined, resulting in faster delivery times, better stock control and improved reporting on sales and revenue.

With almost 50% of the UK grocery trade expected to adopt the network within months, this represents an extraordinary opportunity.  However, retailers must ensure that the data within their own organisation is correctly aligned in order to benefit from GDS benefits further down the line.

Retailers need to carry out a systematic audit to establish exactly where any discrepancies, omissions or duplications in their data lie.  Then the information should be cleaned and consolidated before it is used if the anticipated benefits of GDS are to be realised.