Over the course of the past two decades, the distribution networks of wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers have become increasingly intertwined. In many different types of businesses, retail sales are what first spark replenishment orders to be placed with manufacturers.

When it comes to restocking store shelves, manufacturers who have a well-tuned, just-in-time supply chain are able to do it automatically as products are removed.

Companies have been able to further improve their performance by using more powerful analytic tools because to the greater level of collaboration. These tools incorporate more data from partners in the supply chain.