ResourcesFragmented inventory systems are costing more than efficiency – They’re hurting the customer experience
Jun. 03, 2025
ERP

Fragmented inventory systems are costing more than efficiency – They’re hurting the customer experience

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Inventory is the engine behind every successful retail operation. But for many midsize retailers, that engine is running on outdated fuel. According to our recent survey of 300 retail leaders in the U.S., 59% of retailers still rely on disconnected tools, Excel spreadsheets, or manual processes to manage inventory planning, forecasting, and execution. Without a unified system, these retailers face not only operational bottlenecks – but also a direct hit to the customer experience.

Disconnected systems lead to disappointed customers

When inventory is managed in silos, the results are painfully predictable:

  • Stockouts frustrate shoppers ready to buy
  • Overstocks tie up capital and clog valuable shelf space
  • Fulfillment errors result in missed delivery windows and returns
  • Inconsistent inventory visibility across stores, warehouses, and online channels leads to mismatched expectations

These issues erode the very thing retailers say they value most: customer satisfaction.

In fact, our analysis uncovered a clear correlation – retailers using multiple inventory systems  are failing to deliver a consistent, unified omnichannel experience.

And in today’s market, that’s a problem.

The state of software solutions for mid-sized retailers

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The omnichannel ripple effect

Modern shoppers expect a fluid experience: browse online, pick up in store, check inventory from their phones, redeem loyalty rewards at any touchpoint. But without centralized inventory data, retailers simply can’t meet these expectations. Sales associates are left without answers, promotions don’t align across channels, and customers lose trust.

It’s not just an operational challenge. It’s a brand credibility issue.

Why unified inventory is a retail must-have

If your goal is to improve accuracy, reduce excess inventory, and increase fulfillment speed, it starts with a single source of truth for inventory. A modern, unified solution helps retailers:

  • Forecast demand accurately with AI-powered insights
  • Automate replenishment based on real-time data
  • Track inventory movement across stores and warehouses
  • Align supply with customer demand across every channel

It also empowers staff with the tools and information they need to deliver consistent service – whether they’re on the sales floor or fulfilling online orders.

In short, unified inventory isn’t just about what’s on the shelf – it’s about the experience you deliver at every stage of the customer journey.

Invest in the backbone of better retail

The message from the data is clear: fragmented inventory systems lead to fragmented experiences. If you’re managing multiple locations and channels, and still juggling spreadsheets and siloed tools, it’s time to evolve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Core Problems & Pain Points

What common inventory management challenges do retailers face?

According to a recent survey of 300 U.S. retail leaders, 59% of midsize retailers still rely on disconnected tools, Excel spreadsheets, or manual processes for inventory planning, forecasting, and execution. This leads to stockouts, overstocks, fulfillment errors, and inconsistent inventory visibility across stores, warehouses, and online channels—ultimately hurting customer satisfaction and brand credibility. Source

How does Priority address fragmented inventory systems?

Priority provides a unified inventory management solution that centralizes data, automates replenishment, and tracks inventory movement across stores and warehouses. This eliminates silos, improves accuracy, reduces excess inventory, and increases fulfillment speed—empowering staff to deliver consistent service and a seamless omnichannel experience. Source

What core business problems does Priority solve?

Priority solves poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, manual processes, outdated systems, limited scalability, integration complexity, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. It does so by centralizing real-time data, automating workflows, and providing end-to-end order fulfillment capabilities. Source

Features & Capabilities

What are the key features of Priority's unified inventory solution?

Priority's unified inventory solution offers AI-powered demand forecasting, automated replenishment, real-time inventory tracking across stores and warehouses, centralized data for omnichannel consistency, and tools for staff to deliver consistent customer service. Source

How does Priority enable omnichannel retail experiences?

Priority centralizes inventory data, enabling retailers to offer fluid experiences such as browsing online, picking up in store, checking inventory from mobile devices, and redeeming loyalty rewards at any touchpoint. This ensures promotions and inventory align across channels, building customer trust and brand credibility. Source

What makes Priority's solution easy to use?

Customers consistently praise Priority for its intuitive interface, flexibility, and ease of use. For example, Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) noted full process automation and a user-friendly design, while Tomer Lebel (Cyberint) found Priority much easier to operate than other leading ERP solutions. Case Studies

Does Priority support industry-specific requirements?

Yes, Priority offers tailored functionalities for industries such as retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. This ensures businesses receive solutions designed for their unique needs, unlike generic ERP systems. Source

Use Cases & Benefits

Who can benefit from Priority's unified inventory solution?

Priority is ideal for midsize retailers managing multiple locations and channels, especially those struggling with disconnected systems, manual processes, or Excel-based inventory management. It is also well-suited for CFOs, IT Directors, and Operations Leaders seeking scalable, future-proof ERP solutions. Source

What business impact can customers expect from using Priority?

Customers can expect enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, improved decision-making, and long-term adaptability. Priority's features—such as integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, and scalability—help businesses streamline processes and improve customer satisfaction. Source

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority compare to other ERP and retail management solutions?

Priority stands out by offering a modular, all-in-one solution that eliminates complex integrations, maintains a single source of truth, and provides industry-specific features. Unlike competitors that require multiple systems and heavy customization, Priority delivers seamless workflows, no-code customizations, and advanced analytics. It is recognized by Gartner and IDC and trusted by companies like Toyota, Flex, and Teva. Source

Why should a customer choose Priority over alternatives?

Priority offers integration simplicity, centralized data, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, and industry-specific features. These advantages make it highly adaptable, efficient, and cost-effective for businesses seeking long-term value. Source

Implementation & Support

How long does it take to implement Priority?

Implementation times vary: industry-specific off-the-shelf solutions can be deployed within a few weeks, while tailored workflows, multi-site setups, or legacy data migration typically take 1-6 months. Priority provides professional services, configuration, data migration, and training to ensure a smooth process. Source

What support is available after purchasing Priority?

Priority offers comprehensive post-purchase support, including troubleshooting, system optimization, updates, customizations, and access to Priority Xpert (knowledge base, video tutorials, self-service tools). Multilingual support resources and professional services are also available. Source

How does Priority handle maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting?

Priority provides automatic software updates and zero-downtime maintenance for aiERP. SaaS customers receive updates outside work hours, while on-premises customers manage their own updates. Experienced personnel offer troubleshooting and fault remediation for supported software versions. Extended support is available for an additional fee. Source

Customer Proof & Recognition

Who are some of Priority's customers?

Priority is trusted by leading companies across retail and ERP sectors, including Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, GSK, and Teva. Source

What feedback have customers shared about Priority?

Customers highlight Priority's flexibility, customizability, reliability, affordability, and high level of support. Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) and Tomer Lebel (Cyberint) specifically praise its ease of use and intuitive interface. Martyn Young (Cherwell Laboratories) found Priority to be the closest match to their needs out of the box. Case Studies