EmpowerFresh highlights software for produce department management

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — EmpowerFresh executives highlighted its cloud-based software for managing fresh produce department operations at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Anthony Totta, chief visionary officer for the Kansas City, Mo.-based company, said the cloud-based software is a tool for produce managers and produce directors. A key element of the system is an alert system that manages the margin on every produce transaction, he said.

“Twenty-four hours a day, we are collecting [data] on their purchases, their sales and competitive market data showing retailers’ positions versus competitors,” Totta said, adding that the tool also provides insights on inventory turn, margins and shrink.

The tool helps retailers plan ads, giving insights on the expected sales lift for particular ads and price points, he said.

“We’re helping pick the right retail [prices] and pick the right items that will help them build a more powerful ad,” Totta said. “We’re reducing retail shrink, increasing their turns and increasing their sales.”

Totta said the system also allows produce managers and executives to ask questions on the platform of EmpowerFresh experts, such as ways to preserve freshness for specific commodities.

Already installed at a regional chain in Nebraska, Totta said the “game-changing” system is gathering much attention from retailers and produce managers.