(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Live commerce in China has created a dynamic environment where speed and accuracy in inventory management can make or break sales. For overseas brands, staying ahead requires precise control of stock, data-driven decision-making, and an agile supply chain that responds to live consumer demand.
1. Predictive Inventory Planning
1.1 Trend Analysis
Method: Use predictive models to identify emerging product trends based on previous live shopping data.
Impact: Brands can proactively stock high-demand items, reducing missed sales opportunities.
1.2 Scenario Planning
Technique: Prepare multiple inventory scenarios for different audience sizes or seasonal demand peaks.
Benefit: Ensures preparedness for sudden surges without overcommitting resources.
2. Automated Replenishment Systems
2.1 Trigger-Based Orders
Implementation: Automatically generate purchase orders when inventory drops below pre-set thresholds.
Advantage: Reduces manual errors and prevents live streaming interruptions due to stock shortages.
2.2 Vendor Integration
Approach: Connect directly with suppliers for automated replenishment based on live demand analytics.
Result: Ensures quick turnaround and consistent product availability for overseas brands.
3. Inventory Visibility Across Channels
3.1 Multi-Platform Integration
Technique: Synchronize stock data across live commerce, e-commerce, and offline channels.
Benefit: Prevents overselling and provides accurate information to consumers during live events.
3.2 Centralized Dashboards
Tool: Use a unified dashboard to monitor inventory trends and track sales performance in real time.
Impact: Provides actionable insights to adjust stock and promotions dynamically.
4. Optimized Warehouse Operations
4.1 Layout & Picking Efficiency
Method: Design warehouse layouts to prioritize fast-moving products for live events.
Advantage: Reduces order processing time and supports same-day dispatch.
4.2 Inventory Turnover Monitoring
Strategy: Track product turnover to identify slow-moving items and adjust future live offerings.
Result: Minimizes dead stock while maintaining availability for top-selling products.
Case Study:
An Australian skincare brand integrated predictive inventory planning and automated replenishment with its live commerce strategy on Douyin. By anticipating popular products and automating restocking, the brand reduced stockouts by 40% and increased average order value by 15%, demonstrating the value of data-driven inventory decisions.
Conclusion
Efficient inventory management enables overseas brands to maximize sales opportunities, reduce stock risks, and deliver seamless live shopping experiences. By adopting predictive planning and automation, brands can thrive in China’s fast-moving e-commerce landscape.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
