Walmart unveils data accuracy scorecard for suppliers
In a letter sent to suppliers last month, Walmart vice president of replenishment Jerry Spencer said he expected them to start uploading new product information through the global data synchronisation (GDS) network "immediately"
He added: "Walmart must receive 100% accurate and consistent product data (weights, item dimensions). A scorecard to monitor data accuracy will be implemented soon."
GDS enables trading partners to exchange standardised product data via huge electronic data pools to speed up communication and reduce invoice disputes, errors and stock shortages.
However, Spencer said the firm would only deliver benefits if the information exchanged was "accurate" and "standardised"
There are no immediate plans to launch a data scorecard for Asda suppliers, said a spokeswoman. However, Asda would not rule out introducing one in future.
Several UK firms including Spar, 3663, Makro, Heinz and R&R Ice Cream are now exchanging data with trading partners via the GDS network.
