Quick Overview
- 1#1: Blue Yonder - AI-powered end-to-end supply chain planning platform with advanced merchandise demand forecasting, assortment planning, and inventory optimization for retailers.
- 2#2: Oracle Retail Merchandising - Cloud-based merchandising foundation suite enabling retail assortment planning, open-to-buy management, and financial planning.
- 3#3: SAP for Retail - Integrated ERP solution with merchandise planning, allocation, and replenishment capabilities for large-scale retail operations.
- 4#4: RELEX Solutions - Unified retail planning platform optimizing merchandise forecasting, space planning, and inventory across the supply chain.
- 5#5: o9 Solutions - AI-driven digital planning platform for merchandise demand sensing, scenario planning, and integrated business planning in retail.
- 6#6: Manhattan Active Merchandising - Cloud-native merchandising system supporting purchase order management, allocation, and retail financial planning.
- 7#7: Logility Voyager - Supply chain planning suite with demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and merchandise allocation for retailers.
- 8#8: JustEnough - Retail planning software focused on demand forecasting, replenishment, and merchandise optimization for mid-market retailers.
- 9#9: Anaplan - Connected planning platform enabling collaborative merchandise planning, budgeting, and demand forecasting for retail teams.
- 10#10: ToolsGroup SO99+ - Multi-echelon inventory optimization software with merchandise planning and probabilistic forecasting for complex retail networks.
We evaluated tools based on core functionality (including forecasting accuracy, integration capabilities, and scalability), technical robustness, user experience, and overall value, ensuring a balanced mix of innovation and practical utility for retailers of all scales.
Comparison Table
Merchandise planning software is essential for modern retail operations, balancing inventory accuracy, demand forecasting, and strategic alignment. This comparison table explores top tools like Blue Yonder, Oracle Retail Merchandising, SAP for Retail, RELEX Solutions, o9 Solutions, and more, breaking down their key features, strengths, and ideal use cases to help readers select the right software for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Yonder AI-powered end-to-end supply chain planning platform with advanced merchandise demand forecasting, assortment planning, and inventory optimization for retailers. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Oracle Retail Merchandising Cloud-based merchandising foundation suite enabling retail assortment planning, open-to-buy management, and financial planning. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | SAP for Retail Integrated ERP solution with merchandise planning, allocation, and replenishment capabilities for large-scale retail operations. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | RELEX Solutions Unified retail planning platform optimizing merchandise forecasting, space planning, and inventory across the supply chain. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | o9 Solutions AI-driven digital planning platform for merchandise demand sensing, scenario planning, and integrated business planning in retail. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Manhattan Active Merchandising Cloud-native merchandising system supporting purchase order management, allocation, and retail financial planning. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Logility Voyager Supply chain planning suite with demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and merchandise allocation for retailers. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | JustEnough Retail planning software focused on demand forecasting, replenishment, and merchandise optimization for mid-market retailers. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Anaplan Connected planning platform enabling collaborative merchandise planning, budgeting, and demand forecasting for retail teams. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | ToolsGroup SO99+ Multi-echelon inventory optimization software with merchandise planning and probabilistic forecasting for complex retail networks. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
AI-powered end-to-end supply chain planning platform with advanced merchandise demand forecasting, assortment planning, and inventory optimization for retailers.
Cloud-based merchandising foundation suite enabling retail assortment planning, open-to-buy management, and financial planning.
Integrated ERP solution with merchandise planning, allocation, and replenishment capabilities for large-scale retail operations.
Unified retail planning platform optimizing merchandise forecasting, space planning, and inventory across the supply chain.
AI-driven digital planning platform for merchandise demand sensing, scenario planning, and integrated business planning in retail.
Cloud-native merchandising system supporting purchase order management, allocation, and retail financial planning.
Supply chain planning suite with demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and merchandise allocation for retailers.
Retail planning software focused on demand forecasting, replenishment, and merchandise optimization for mid-market retailers.
Connected planning platform enabling collaborative merchandise planning, budgeting, and demand forecasting for retail teams.
Multi-echelon inventory optimization software with merchandise planning and probabilistic forecasting for complex retail networks.
Blue Yonder
enterpriseAI-powered end-to-end supply chain planning platform with advanced merchandise demand forecasting, assortment planning, and inventory optimization for retailers.
Luminate Planning's AI-powered cognitive demand planning that uses real-time data and machine learning for hyper-accurate, continuous forecasting adjustments.
Blue Yonder is an enterprise-grade AI-powered supply chain platform specializing in merchandise planning for retailers, enabling precise demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and assortment planning. It integrates advanced machine learning to analyze vast datasets, predict consumer trends, and align financial plans with operational execution. The solution supports end-to-end merchandise lifecycle management, from planning to replenishment, helping retailers maximize profitability and reduce waste.
Pros
- Comprehensive AI/ML-driven forecasting and demand sensing for high accuracy
- Scalable for global enterprises with multi-channel support
- Seamless integration with ERP, POS, and other retail systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Pricing opacity requires custom quotes
Best For
Large-scale retailers and enterprises with complex, omnichannel operations seeking advanced, data-driven merchandise optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically starting at $500,000+ annually depending on scale and modules.
Oracle Retail Merchandising
enterpriseCloud-based merchandising foundation suite enabling retail assortment planning, open-to-buy management, and financial planning.
AI-driven unified planning engine that optimizes assortments, allocations, and financial planning in a single platform
Oracle Retail Merchandising is an enterprise-grade solution that streamlines merchandising operations for retailers, encompassing demand planning, assortment optimization, inventory allocation, and purchase order management. It leverages advanced analytics and AI to forecast demand accurately and support data-driven assortment decisions across omnichannel retail environments. As part of Oracle's Retail suite, it integrates seamlessly with ERP, supply chain, and store systems to enhance operational efficiency and profitability.
Pros
- Comprehensive AI-powered forecasting and assortment planning tools for precise demand management
- Deep integration with Oracle's retail ecosystem and third-party systems for end-to-end visibility
- Highly scalable for global, multi-channel retailers handling complex hierarchies and volumes
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant customization and expertise
- Steep learning curve and less intuitive interface for non-enterprise users
- Premium pricing that may not suit smaller retailers
Best For
Large-scale enterprise retailers with complex, global merchandising operations needing robust integration and advanced analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically starting at $500K+ annually depending on deployment size and modules.
SAP for Retail
enterpriseIntegrated ERP solution with merchandise planning, allocation, and replenishment capabilities for large-scale retail operations.
AI-powered predictive analytics for hyper-local demand forecasting and assortment optimization
SAP for Retail is an enterprise-grade solution that provides advanced merchandise planning, including demand forecasting, assortment optimization, allocation, and replenishment planning tailored for complex retail operations. It integrates AI, machine learning, and real-time analytics to help retailers manage inventory across stores, online, and supply chains. Leveraging the SAP ecosystem, it enables seamless connectivity with ERP, finance, and logistics systems for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Comprehensive AI-driven forecasting and scenario planning
- Deep integration with SAP S/4HANA and supply chain modules
- Scalable for global retailers with multi-channel support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High upfront costs and customization expenses
- Overkill for small to mid-sized retailers
Best For
Large enterprise retailers with complex, international operations needing integrated planning across the full retail value chain.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $500K+ annually based on modules, users, and deployment scale.
RELEX Solutions
enterpriseUnified retail planning platform optimizing merchandise forecasting, space planning, and inventory across the supply chain.
Unified AI platform that integrates merchandise financial planning with real-time supply chain execution for end-to-end optimization
RELEX Solutions is an AI-powered retail planning platform specializing in merchandise planning, offering tools for demand forecasting, assortment optimization, financial planning, and inventory allocation. It unifies merchandise operations with supply chain management, enabling retailers to achieve precise planning across stores, DCs, and suppliers. The platform leverages machine learning for hyper-accurate predictions and scenario simulations to drive profitability and reduce waste.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven forecasting and assortment planning for superior accuracy
- Seamless integration across retail operations including replenishment and space planning
- Scalable for global enterprises with proven results in grocery and fashion retail
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant time and resources
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- High cost structure best suited for large-scale operations
Best For
Enterprise retailers with complex supply chains, such as grocery chains and department stores, needing integrated AI-powered merchandise planning.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually based on store count, users, and modules.
o9 Solutions
enterpriseAI-driven digital planning platform for merchandise demand sensing, scenario planning, and integrated business planning in retail.
Graph-powered Digital Brain for real-time, holistic simulation and optimization across the entire planning value chain
o9 Solutions provides an AI-powered Digital Brain platform that enables end-to-end merchandise planning for retailers and consumer goods companies. It integrates demand forecasting, assortment optimization, inventory allocation, and financial planning using advanced machine learning and graph-based modeling for real-time decision-making. The solution supports collaborative planning across teams, helping to balance profitability, availability, and assortment strategies in complex, multi-channel environments.
Pros
- Advanced AI and ML for highly accurate demand sensing and forecasting
- Integrated platform covering assortment, allocation, and replenishment planning
- Scalable for large enterprises with multi-echelon inventory optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High cost suitable only for large organizations
- Requires significant data integration efforts upfront
Best For
Large retail and CPG enterprises needing sophisticated, AI-driven end-to-end merchandise planning across global operations.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing, typically starting at $100K+ annually based on scale; contact for quote.
Manhattan Active Merchandising
enterpriseCloud-native merchandising system supporting purchase order management, allocation, and retail financial planning.
Autonomous AI-driven planning engine that enables real-time assortment and allocation adjustments without manual intervention
Manhattan Active Merchandising is a cloud-native platform that streamlines retail merchandising operations, including assortment planning, demand forecasting, inventory allocation, and replenishment. It leverages AI and machine learning for precise predictions and real-time optimization, helping retailers align product strategies with market demands. Integrated within the Manhattan Active Suite, it supports omnichannel commerce by unifying planning, execution, and analytics in a scalable microservices architecture.
Pros
- AI/ML-powered demand forecasting and assortment optimization for accurate planning
- Cloud-native scalability with real-time data processing and microservices flexibility
- Seamless integration with broader supply chain and omnichannel solutions
Cons
- High implementation complexity and long setup times for enterprises
- Premium pricing unsuitable for small to mid-sized retailers
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive user training
Best For
Large enterprise retailers with complex, omnichannel operations needing integrated AI-driven merchandise planning.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $500K+ annually based on scale, modules, and users—contact sales for details.
Logility Voyager
enterpriseSupply chain planning suite with demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and merchandise allocation for retailers.
SenseEdge AI for real-time demand sensing and automated assortment optimization
Logility Voyager is an AI-driven supply chain planning platform that provides robust merchandise planning capabilities for retailers, including demand forecasting, assortment optimization, inventory allocation, and replenishment planning. It leverages machine learning to deliver accurate predictions and real-time insights, integrating seamlessly with ERP and POS systems. Designed for scalability, it supports multi-channel retail operations from planning to execution, helping businesses minimize stockouts and overstock.
Pros
- Advanced AI/ML-powered forecasting and demand sensing for precise merchandise planning
- Integrated end-to-end capabilities covering assortment, allocation, and replenishment
- Scalable cloud platform with strong ERP integrations for enterprise retailers
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and configuration
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be prohibitive for smaller retailers
- Limited out-of-the-box reporting customization requires professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large retailers with complex, multi-channel operations needing integrated AI-driven merchandise and supply chain planning.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically subscription model starting at $50,000+ annually depending on modules and users.
JustEnough
specializedRetail planning software focused on demand forecasting, replenishment, and merchandise optimization for mid-market retailers.
AI-powered item-location level demand sensing for hyper-accurate, real-time planning adjustments
JustEnough is a cloud-based merchandise planning software suite designed for retailers, offering AI-powered demand forecasting, assortment planning, inventory optimization, and financial planning tools. It enables granular planning at the SKU-location level to align inventory with demand across multi-channel operations. The platform integrates advanced analytics to drive profitability and reduce stockouts or overstock situations.
Pros
- AI and machine learning for precise demand forecasting
- Comprehensive end-to-end planning including allocation and replenishment
- Scalable for multi-store and omnichannel retailers
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires significant training
- Opaque quote-based pricing can be expensive for SMBs
- Implementation can take several months
Best For
Mid-to-large retailers needing advanced AI-driven merchandise planning for complex, multi-channel inventory management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; modular subscriptions typically start at $50,000+ annually based on users and modules.
Anaplan
enterpriseConnected planning platform enabling collaborative merchandise planning, budgeting, and demand forecasting for retail teams.
Connected Planning that seamlessly links merchandise planning with finance, operations, and supply chain in real-time
Anaplan is a cloud-native connected planning platform that empowers enterprises with multi-dimensional modeling for comprehensive merchandise planning, including demand forecasting, assortment planning, and inventory optimization. It integrates planning across finance, supply chain, and sales functions, enabling real-time collaboration and scenario analysis. The platform leverages AI-driven insights and Hyperblock technology for hyperfast calculations on massive datasets, making it suitable for complex retail environments.
Pros
- Highly scalable multi-dimensional modeling for complex planning
- Real-time collaboration and what-if scenario analysis
- AI-powered forecasting and Hyperblock for speed on large datasets
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring skilled model builders
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Overly complex for small to mid-sized retailers
Best For
Large enterprise retailers with complex, cross-functional merchandise and supply chain planning needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing based on users and workspaces; typically starts at $50,000+ annually.
ToolsGroup SO99+
specializedMulti-echelon inventory optimization software with merchandise planning and probabilistic forecasting for complex retail networks.
Bootstrapped Multi-Echelon Inventory Optimization (MEIO) using probabilistic simulations for end-to-end network-wide stock balancing
ToolsGroup SO99+ is a supply chain planning platform focused on demand forecasting, sensing, and multi-echelon inventory optimization (MEIO) tailored for retail and consumer goods. It excels in handling complex, high-SKU assortments with granular attributes like size, color, and style, enabling precise replenishment and stock allocation across channels. The software integrates probabilistic modeling to improve forecast accuracy and reduce stockouts/overstock in volatile demand environments.
Pros
- Superior probabilistic forecasting and demand sensing for intermittent, lumpy demand
- Multi-echelon inventory optimization across the entire supply chain
- Granular ladder planning support for style-color-size dimensions
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expert consultants
- Limited native support for full assortment planning or open-to-buy financial tools
- High enterprise pricing with custom quotes only
Best For
Large-scale retailers and distributors with complex, high-variety assortments seeking advanced inventory optimization integrated with merchandise planning.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing via custom quote; typically $500K+ annually for mid-to-large deployments, plus implementation fees.
Conclusion
The review of merchandise planning software highlights tools that redefine efficiency, with Blue Yonder emerging as the top choice for its AI-driven end-to-end capabilities in demand forecasting and inventory optimization. Oracle Retail Merchandising and SAP for Retail stand out as strong alternatives, offering cloud-based flexibility and integrated ERP strength to suit varied operational needs.
Don’t miss out on enhancing your merchandise planning—explore Blue Yonder’s intuitive platform to drive smarter decisions, streamline workflows, and elevate your retail performance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison