Case Study: Southern Co-op boosts assortment efficiency and on-shelf availability with SymphonyAI

Southern Co-op implements SymphonyAI AI-based assortment and space to increase shopper engagement, turbocharge efficiency, and increase on-shelf availability

Southern Co-op, an independent member-owned co-operative in the south of England, wanted to modernize its range and space planning with more tailored assortments, shelf plans, and floor plans for each store and category. To better match local shopper demand, reduce waste and clearance markdowns, and improve stock availability without adding headcount, the retailer chose SymphonyAI’s AI-based assortment and space planning solutions.

SymphonyAI implemented its intelligent Retail Assortment, Shelf Planning, and Floor Planning tools to help Southern Co-op cluster stores, automate planograms, and align stock and shelf space more precisely to demand. Within weeks of going live, Southern Co-op reported major efficiencies in assortment and space planning, faster new item cut-ins, improved team productivity, reduced wastage, and better on-shelf availability—helping drive stronger shopper satisfaction and profitability.

Southern Co-op

Andrew Farndell

Head of Retail Commercial