Dollar General deploys AI across distribution centers, stores

The retailer is using Relex Solutions’ supply chain platform to manage ordering schedules, lead times, supplier coordination and fulfillment methods.

Dollar General is implementing artificial intelligence to unify forecasting, replenishment and allocation across its North America operations.

Ai implementation details

In partnership with Relex Solutions, the retailer aims to use AI to coordinate planning across its network, which includes 21,000 stores and 34 distribution centers, according to an Aug. 27 press release from the technology company.

Dollar General will leverage Relex’s AI platform to manage store replenishment, ordering schedules, lead times, supplier coordination and fulfillment methods. Demand factors, including sales patterns, will also be built directly into the planning process so distribution centers and stores can use the same data.

"The platform brings forecasting, replenishment, and allocation planning into a single environment, giving our teams greater visibility across the network,” Jeff Vaughan, senior vice president of global inventory management at Dollar General, said in the release.

Company strategy and goals

Dollar General has been looking to increase its use of AI throughout its operations, CEO Todd Vasos said during an Aug. 27 earnings call. In practice, driving efficiencies can help mitigate cost pressures, according to the executive.

“Additionally, while we are still early in our AI journey, we are building agentic operating systems for the enterprise focused on reshaping and optimizing our workflows to improve productivity throughout the organization,” Vasos said.

Other retailers and companies have also been turning to Relex’s technology to drive supply chain efficiency and overall visibility.

Lowe’s, for instance, announced plans to scale its partnership with Relex in April in a bid to improve inventory management. At the time, the retailer said full implementation is slated for early 2027.

Last year, Guitar Center also implemented Relex technology to improve inventory planning capabilities and overall supply chain visibility to reduce stockouts and overstock.