How Tesco Enhanced Supply Chain Visibility Using AI
Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain, operates more than 4,250 stores nationwide, managing one of the most extensive retail networks in the world.
This enormous operation brings a complex supply chain that requires constant visibility and efficient management to ensure smooth operations.
To meet these challenges, Tesco has turned to Roambee, a cutting-edge supply chain visibility platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
By deploying this technology, Tesco has achieved a reduction in dwell times and improved stock accuracy across 3,000 locations, setting a new standard for operational efficiency.
Real-time visibility across thousands of journeys
Before adopting Roambee, Tesco relied on third-party data to monitor thousands of containers moving across diverse zones, terminals and stores. This approach often caused delays and inefficiencies when tracking container locations or verifying deliveries.
By integrating Roambee’s AI-driven platform, Tesco now enjoys real-time access to container locations. The system enables supply chain leaders to track shipments, resolve delivery issues quickly and maintain precise inventory levels.
Roambee’s solution covers over 23,000 unique container journeys, monitoring more than 6.21 million miles of rail and road logistics annually. This vast network is powered by real-time signals, giving Tesco unparalleled insight into its operations.
Ben Smith, Tesco’s Head of Primary, Global and Rail Logistics, explains the transformation: “Roambee's platform has allowed us to track and manage our container movements across rail and road much more effectively.
“We now have more real-time visibility and don't need to rely on third-party data to confirm deliveries and track containers. We can trace the location of our shipments at any time, reducing delivery errors and ensuring our stores are stocked efficiently.
“This real-time insight has allowed us to resolve issues faster, reduce dwell times and increase stock accuracy across our network.”
Enhanced security and streamlined operations
Tesco has also equipped all UK containers with solar-powered sensors, enabling constant monitoring of shipments. These sensors track groceries and other products 24/7, ensuring high security and timely deliveries.
The system flags real-time security signals, such as route deviations, delays or unplanned stoppages. This not only enhances security but also helps Tesco minimise disruptions in its supply chain.
Sanjay Sharma, Roambee’s CEO, highlights the significance of this achievement: “By achieving this remarkable level of visibility in container movements and improving stock accuracy on cost-effective but less predictable modes like rail, Tesco has set a new standard for supply chain efficiency.
“We’re proud to support them with a technology solution that drives success. As global supply chains become more interconnected and autonomous, Roambee's platform positions customers to lead this transformation, opening new possibilities for growth and resilience.”
Roambee’s platform integrates seamlessly with Tesco's scheduling systems, tracking container movements, arrival and departure times, dwell times and estimated times of arrival (ETAs). This integration reduces inefficiencies and eliminates the need for teams to contact multiple departments to locate products, ensuring smoother and faster operations.
A game-changer for the retail giant
By embracing AI and real-time tracking, Tesco has improved its supply chain visibility, enhanced stock accuracy and reduced delivery errors. These advancements have had a direct impact on its stores’ ability to keep shelves stocked and meet customer demand efficiently.
Roambee's platform exemplifies the potential of technology to transform supply chains, especially for large organisations managing extensive networks. Tesco’s partnership with Roambee has not only streamlined operations but also set a benchmark for the retail industry to follow.
As Ben concludes: “This real-time insight has allowed us to resolve issues faster, reduce dwell times and increase stock accuracy across our network.”
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