PROCUREMENT TECHNOLOGY
“ If you cannot quickly and efficiently move the product , it ’ s going to be a missed opportunity to delight the customer ”
JUAN GUERRERO SVP , CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER BIG LOTS
Asia-based buying offices : Strategy behind the move Under the leadership of Senior Vice President Kevin Kuehl , the international buying offices strategically tap into significant manufacturing facilities and vendor partners in the Asian region .
The focus is on expanding the sourcing network for key categories like furniture , seasonal items and soft home goods . Strategic acquisitions , such as the Hearthsong brand of children ’ s toys , underscore Big Lots ’ dedication to sourcing innovative products at unmatched prices , driving customer loyalty and satisfaction .
Kevin says the process was taking place through an intermediary , and while there were some advantages , one area it needed to solve was around sourcing at the speed and with the variety of “ extreme bargains that our customers expect today .” He adds : “ Bringing international buyers in-house is a game changer . Based in Asia , associates have been integrated into our culture and communication and have been trained with tactical negotiation skills , which is a huge advantage .
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