Wesco Inc., a family-owned and operated chain of convenience stores in Michigan, is partnering with Relex Solutions to unify its space, operations and supply chain planning.
Wesco aims to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction by increasing product availability, optimizing inventory management, minimizing product spoilage and implementing automation to empower both central and store-level employees, Relex Solutions said.
The collaboration includes a partnership with Logic for the implementation phase.
- Wesco Inc. is No. 129 on CSP’s 2024 Top 202 ranking of U.S. convenience-store chains by store count.
“We chose Relex because they deeply understand the convenience-store business and are focused on building lasting partnerships,” said George Barnhardt, vice president, revenue at Wesco. “We're excited about rolling out Relex’s integrated and unified planning tools across our 55 stores. This step is going to streamline our operations significantly, enhance our customer service, and empower our employees by optimizing our inventory management and reducing spoilage.”
Previously, the Muskegon, Michigan-based c-store chain managed its supply chain and space planning with multiple disconnected enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, Relex said. Relex automates processes across all functional areas within a single platform, it says, which also provides dynamic space and floor planning with store-specific planograms and addresses specific challenges faced by convenience stores.
Wesco is also adopting Relex Mobile Pro, which streamlines inventory management and reduces out-of-stocks and spoilage. The tool automates routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on customer service, Relex said, and it provides real-time access to product data, improving decision making and customer satisfaction.
“This collaboration is about more than just technology; it's about integrating innovative solutions that will fundamentally enhance Wesco’s operations,” Greg Westrick, vice president of North America West for Relex. “Our focus is on delivering measurable improvements in efficiency and performance, ensuring that Wesco continues to serve their customers effectively. We are committed to a long-term partnership that aligns with Wesco's strategic goals, driving value and success throughout their network of stores.”
Atlanta-based Relex is a provider of unified supply chain and retail planning solutions.
In addition to operating 55 convenience stores in Michigan, Wesco also owns and operates a private distribution center, a bulk fuel and propane business, a private-label deli and bakery operation and nine Subways. It has more than 1,300 associates and its revenues exceed $500 million annually, with nearly 100 million gallons of fuel and more than 26 million customer visits, the company said.
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