How Did AI Hurt Red Lobster But Help ALDI?

Posted on May 26, 2024

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Under Kenny, Red Lobster also cut two of its longtime shrimp suppliers— and competitors to Thai Union — to purchase more shrimp from Thai Union at higher costs, according to Red Lobster’s bankruptcy filing. Kenny’s decision came “in apparent coordination with Thai Union and under the guise of a ‘quality review,’” Red Lobster said.

These changes culminated in a $20 endless shrimp promotion in 2023 that would come back to haunt Red Lobster.

“Thai Union exercised an outsized influence on the Company’s shrimp purchasing,” Red Lobster alleged in its bankruptcy filing. Red Lobster said it was “investigating whether Mr. Kenny’s decision-making process circumvented the Company’s normal supply chain and demand planning.” – How a global seafood giant broke Red Lobster, CNN (May 25th, 2024)

Red Lobster and AI

Red Lobster Achieving Supply Chain Transparency Across 700 Restaurants with FoodLogiQ Connect (October 27th, 2019)

“So in 2018, the company’s Total Quality and Food Safety team scrapped their antiquated data management system and embraced new technology opportunities to streamline their supplier management processes. That’s no small feat for an organization with more than 700 restaurants and 170 suppliers worldwide.”

Red Lobster taps AI for Cheddar Bay Biscuit playlists, Nation’s Restaurant News (April 15th, 2024)

“Red Lobster has tapped artificial intelligence to create two playlists around its popular Cheddar Bay Biscuits, the company said Monday.”

Aldi is already known for its low prices (especially with those monthly Aldi Finds), but the fan-favorite retailer is about to offer us even more ways to save money.

This summer, Aldi is cutting prices so low, they want customers to save a collective $100 million. That’s right. If you’re looking to save this season (who isn’t?) you’ll want to read on to learn how you can do it when you shop at this grocery store all summer long. – Aldi Is Slashing Prices on 250 Summer Products to Save Customers $100 Million, Allrecipes (May 9th, 2024)

ALDI and AI

Aldi turns to AI to strengthen freight management, Supply Chain Dive (January 19th, 2024)

“The supermarket chain aims to centralize its global shipping volume, increase cost transparency and improve its control over the movement of goods throughout its supply chain using One Network Enterprises’ Intelligent Control Tower on the Digital Supply Chain Network solution.”

Case Study: Aldi Leverages AI for Global Efficiency and Sustainability, AI Expert Network (April 13th, 2024)

“ALDI, a global leader in the retail sector, has adopted artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance various facets of its operations, from global shipping control to recycling management. By deploying innovative AI solutions, ALDI aims to optimize its supply chain, improve customer service, and lead sustainability efforts in the industry.”

The Takeaway Question is: Look at the practitioners, providers, technologies, and outcomes. What happened?

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Posted in: Commentary