What Is On-Shelf Availability?
On-shelf availability (OSA) refers to whether a product is actually on the shelf when a customer wants to buy it. At Walmart, this connects closely with the idea of surety of supply — confidence that a supplier can maintain a healthy flow of inventory into stores so out-of-stock situations are limited.
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While on-shelf availability can be affected by many factors, it starts with a supplier’s ability to consistently produce the volume Walmart requires.
We Can Produce Inventory for Walmart — Now What?
Once production is in place, the next step is making sure your logistics network is set up to get products to Walmart on time and in the correct ordered quantities — OTIF, or on time in full.
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On-shelf availability can be strengthened by working closely with your Walmart replenishment manager to make sure your supply plan and forecast are aligned, and that your products and OTIF goals are being met.