The retail industry's focus is on value—quality products at low prices, in an environment that keeps their customers coming back for more. This focus on value is pervasive, affecting every element of a retail business. At the root of every successful retailer is a well-designed and efficient supply chain where vendor relationships are paramount to adding value to the retailer's business.

Retailers can achieve exceptional supply chain efficiencies through Expressive Commerce. Retailers sharing more detailed information with vendors ensures that auto-replenishment, quick selling inventory and other IT systems are streamlined instruments in improving consumer to producer linkages (to point of purchase—ordering, shipping, delivering, stocking; and at point of purchase—staffing, paying, advertising).

Some of the largest retailers have used CombineNet's Advanced Sourcing Application Platform to increase the efficiency of their sourcing and supply chain activities, including Best Buy, Linens `n Things, PetSmart, and Ross Stores. Acting as the link between producers and consumers, ASAP helps retail companies capitalize on more advanced applications in planning, sourcing, and marketing that benefit from Expressive Commerce.