Decathlon Sporting Goods: Annual Cycle Count Program
Implementing a comprehensive year-round cycle counting program across 150+ sporting goods retail locations, achieving HIGH inventory accuracy while maintaining zero operational disruption.
Client Background
A leading international sporting goods retailer operating 150+ locations across South America, specializing in equipment and apparel for over 70 sports disciplines. The client manages an extensive inventory portfolio across diverse product categories.
With seasonal demand fluctuations, high SKU variety (3.2M+ unique items), and rapid product turnover, the client required a sophisticated cycle counting program to maintain inventory accuracy without disrupting daily operations.
The retailer's commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence demanded a solution that could deliver continuous inventory visibility while supporting their aggressive growth strategy.
The Challenge
Transitioning from annual physical inventories to a continuous cycle counting program while maintaining operational excellence across 150+ locations.
Inventory Accuracy Issues
Annual physical counts revealed 8-12% variance rates, leading to stockouts of popular items and excess inventory of slow-moving products.
Operational Disruption
Traditional wall-to-wall counts required store closures or after-hours operations, impacting sales and employee scheduling.
SKU Complexity
Managing 3.2M+ SKUs across 70+ sport categories with varying sizes, colors, and specifications created significant counting challenges.
Seasonal Demand Fluctuations
Dramatic inventory swings during peak seasons (winter sports, summer activities) made annual counts insufficient for accurate planning.
Shrinkage and Loss Prevention
High-value items (bikes, electronics, premium equipment) experienced elevated shrinkage rates requiring continuous monitoring.
Financial Reporting Accuracy
Quarterly financial reporting required reliable inventory valuations, but annual counts left significant gaps in data accuracy.
Our Solution
A comprehensive, technology-enabled cycle counting program designed to deliver continuous inventory accuracy without operational disruption.
Strategic Count Scheduling
Developed ABC classification system prioritizing high-value and fast-moving items for more frequent counts. A-items counted monthly, B-items quarterly, C-items semi-annually, ensuring optimal resource allocation.
Mobile Technology Platform
Deployed custom mobile counting application with barcode scanning, real-time data synchronization, and exception reporting. Enabled counts during business hours without customer disruption.
Dedicated Count Teams
Deployed 45+ trained specialists organized into regional teams, ensuring consistent methodology and quality standards across all locations. Teams rotated through stores on predetermined schedules.
Real-Time Analytics Dashboard
Implemented comprehensive reporting platform providing store managers and corporate leadership with live accuracy metrics, variance trends, and actionable insights for immediate corrective action.
Quality Assurance Protocol
Established multi-tier verification process with blind recounts for high-value items, variance investigation procedures, and root cause analysis to prevent recurring discrepancies.
Store Staff Training Program
Conducted comprehensive training for store personnel on inventory best practices, cycle count procedures, and system usage, fostering a culture of inventory accuracy and accountability.
Program Implementation Timeline
Measurable Results
The cycle counting program delivered significant improvements in inventory accuracy, operational efficiency, and financial performance.
Achieved exceptional accuracy levels through systematic cycle counting methodology and real-time verification processes.
Reduced time required for inventory verification through optimized workflows and mobile technology deployment.
Identified and prevented inventory losses through continuous monitoring and immediate discrepancy resolution.
Additional Benefits Achieved
Ready to Implement a Cycle Counting Program?
Our team specializes in designing and implementing customized cycle counting programs that deliver continuous inventory accuracy without operational disruption.