International food wholesaler Metro is rolling out an AI forecasting and replenishment system across 540 stores and 70 distribution centres to improve product freshness, availability and waste performance in its ultra‑fresh categories.

The project is part of Metro's Ultra Fresh initiative and uses Relex Solutions’ forecasting and replenishment technology, with Accenture providing delivery and advisory support. The system will cover fresh categories across regions and channels, including wholesale stores and METRO’s food service distribution network for hotels, restaurants, caterers and independent merchants.

Metro said the new technology will unify replenishment processes across fresh categories and markets, creating a consistent planning model that supports fresher products, more reliable availability and lower waste.

By increasing forecast accuracy and automating replenishment decisions, Metro expects to reduce inventory carrying costs and manual workloads in stores and distribution centres. The system is also designed to better align demand, shelf life and delivery timing, supporting faster stock flow and improved service for wholesale customers.

“Ultra-fresh categories require accuracy, speed and collaboration across the supply chain,” said Alexander Stepannikov, head of supplier collaboration and ultra-fresh ordering at Metro.

“Working with Relex gives us the visibility and flexibility to make smarter daily decisions, improving freshness and reducing waste so we can serve customers with confidence.”

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