Spartan Stores has tapped Retalix, a global provider of software solutions for distributors and retailers, to implement a new dock scheduling software application at its distribution centers in Plymouth and Grand Rapids, Mich.

Utilizing appointment-scheduling functions to optimize resources, predict labor demands, facilitate carrier scheduling via the Web and streamline the flow of goods through the distribution center, Retalix Dock Scheduling tracks due dates, forecasts estimated loading and unloading durations, and recommends the appropriate warehouse dock and door. By optimizing the receiving schedule, the application helps distributors plan labor more efficiently, thereby increasing overall dock throughput.

"Our Retalix Dock Scheduling implementation has been a big success," said Tom West, traffic manager for Spartan Stores. "We have found it to be extremely user-friendly, which has contributed to an overwhelming carrier acceptance. This acceptance has led to a significant increase in our Web scheduling and allowed us to streamline our appointment process and cut our manned appointment line-hours in half."

A long-time user of Retalix Traffic Management -- which provides comprehensive inbound freight management for planning, procurement, execution, settlement, visibility, and supplier control - Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Spartan Stores also recently licensed Retalix Yard Management, which automates the yard and dock management process through advanced, predictive logic and leading-edge optimization algorithms.

In addition to servicing nearly 400 independent grocery stores in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, Spartan Stores also owns and operates 84 retail supermarkets in Michigan, under the banners Family Fare Supermarkets, Glen's Markets, D&W Fresh Markets, and Felpausch Food Centers.