Pipeline Fill Planning for New B2B Customers
Aaron Ethridge
Last Update 9 dagen geleden
When launching with a new retail partner, pipeline fill planning ensures you have enough inventory to meet the initial stocking requirements across their stores or distribution centers.
This guide walks you through how to accurately forecast and plan for large one-time pipeline fill orders in Planster.
Pipeline fill refers to the large, upfront order required to stock a new retail partner’s shelves or warehouses before regular replenishment begins. It is typically much larger than ongoing orders.
Go to the Demand Plan tab.
Select Retail.
Choose the new retailer from the dropdown.
Click Add Product to select the SKU(s) being launched.
Enter the necessary product-level data.
Input the Start Date for the retailer launch.
Check the box labeled “Account for Pipeline Fill.”
Planster will automatically calculate and frontload inventory needs for the first two months starting on the launch date.
There are multiple methods to estimate pipeline fill quantities:
Store Count Method: Store count × facings × velocity × weeks of supply
DC Fill Method: Number of distribution centers × average inventory needed per DC
Weeks of Supply: Retailer-specified requirement (e.g., 6–12 weeks of inventory)
Enter and adjust shelf facings, active stores, and weekly sales velocity.
Ensure the volume aligns with the retailer’s launch expectations and logistical capacity.
Go to the Supply Plan tab.
Review the projected purchase recommendation accounting for the pipeline fill.
Confirm that the supply aligns with the start date and fills the launch volume.
Confirm expectations directly with the retailer (store/DC count, weeks of supply).
Account for supplier lead times and production ramp-up.
Include buffer inventory (10–20%) to handle quality issues or launch delays.
Treat pipeline fill separately from regular demand in your forecasting.
Need Help?
If you need support forecasting or executing your pipeline fill strategy, Planster Support is here to help you plan a smooth product launch with your new retail partner.