Program Management

Communication

CSI is responsible for the scheduling, set-up and follow-up of all meetings with merchant teams. Cosgrove Sales, Inc provides initial and daily front line communication, relationship building, and troubleshooting within all levels of the retailer.

Program Implementation

CSI supports the item set-up, imaging, sample and planograming needs for each program. CSI is on call for all vendor and retailer requests.

Trend/Merchandising and New Product Recommendations

CSI attends industry trade shows for latest innovations. Research web information, subscribe to retail publications, and shop the marketplace for industry trends. CSI has former Target personnel on hand as consultants to assist with program development.

Forecast and Planning

  • We utilize Partners Online and Info Retriever, in partnership with Target, and SVHarbor for SuperValu.
  • CSI establishes initial quantity and replenishment forecast planning with the Target MP partner.
  • Our operations team coordinates with vendors to ensure inventory levels are being maintained and reviewed.
  • We analyze weekly sales and in stocks, comparing to forecast to ensure sales are maximized and inventory levels are adjusted according to both the factory and Target's expectations.
  • CSI also anticipates Seasonal/Transition needs as we work with MP to build profiles to assist in maximizing business opportunities.
  • The operations team manages all weekly orders to ensure shipments and receipts are meeting Target's expectations.

Analysis and Opportunity Planning

CSI provides analysis monthly to ensure that sales and productivity are meeting Target's requirements. CSI will also make merchandising and product recommendations based on the analysis to increase Target sales and reduce inventory investment.

Reporting and Analysis

Category Management

  • Work with merchant to define category and subcategories, markets and competitors (category reviews).
  • Develop recommendations for strategy and tactics. Tactics include assortment, promotion, pricing and presentation while communicating effectively and efficiently (category planning).
  • Deliver analysis/reviews to answer key category questions (measurements).
  • The category manager has an expertise in Target's systems - POL, IR, Comp Shop System, Item Maintenance, AAP and Prospace, provides objectivity and maintains confidentiality.