Case Study: AEO Clears Returns Backlog and Speeds Restocking with Optoro

How quick and efficient returns processing is enabling AEO to maximize revenue and keep items in-stock

American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) needed a faster, more scalable way to handle a growing backlog of returned inventory during the early COVID-19 store closures. Returns processing was highly manual and time-consuming, slowing refunds and delaying the return of in-demand items to stock. AEO turned to Optoro and its Returns Management solution to address the immediate backlog and build a longer-term returns process.

Optoro automated and streamlined AEO’s returns workflows, clearing more than 600,000 units within weeks and enabling the company to disposition returns at scale within two months. The result was faster speed to stock, improved margins through fewer discounts, fewer out-of-stocks, and better customer experience. Optoro also gave AEO a single, holistic view of its returns lifecycle across stores and distribution centers, helping it make better inventory decisions and support growth.

AEO

Brandon Friez

VP Supply Chain Transformation