Fourth, the leading global software provider for the hospitality and retail industries, has launched its next-generation forecasting engine using machine-learning and AI-driven algorithms to build forecasting models for multi-site operators that are 25% more accurate than traditional models.
Rather than providing multi-site operators with a blanket approach to forecasting sales to drive workforce management, Fourth’s new tool uses its detailed algorithm to analyse historical data and local events, to arm each and every site manager with the information they need to accurately plan their staffing levels on a day-to-day basis.
Sebastien Sepierre, Managing Director – EMEA, Fourth, said, “Our ground-breaking new solution gives multi-site businesses, who operate within different regions and locations, even greater accuracy when it comes to workforce management and planning.
'The tool provides operators with the ability to look at every individual site within their network, promoting smarter decision-making when it comes to productivity that will, in turn, generate increased revenue across the entire business.
“The industry faces continued challenges and uncertainty, with inflation, energy bill hikes and wavering consumer confidence all threatening the sector’s recovery. Enhanced labour planning accuracy can help keep budgets in control and ensure that every shift at every site is optimally planned for.”
Following a trial, the new tool has been adopted by PizzaExpress across its UK estate of over 360 Pizzerias.
Graham Fenwick, Productivity & Change Director at PizzaExpress, said, “Since implementing Fourth’s new tool, we have seen a 25% accuracy improvement on the previous system forecast.
'The model, which uses machine learning, gives managers a more accurate baseline from which they can build and tweak using their own knowledge and experience to deliver a highly accurate forecast for scheduling their team. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with Fourth on developing the system.”