What is dead stock and why is it bad for food businesses? How can food producers manage it using stock control platforms like NotaZone?

Dead stock refers to inventory that is no longer in demand, has passed its expiration date or is no longer able to be sold. It is a common problem for businesses, especially food businesses where perishable products have a limited shelf life. Dead stock can be a significant financial burden, as it ties up valuable resources such as storage space, money and staff time. 

There are several reasons why dead stock is bad for food producers. Firstly, it ties up valuable resources such as storage space, money, and staff time. This can make it difficult for food producers to effectively manage their inventory and meet customer demand. Secondly, dead stock can lead to wasted product, which not only results in financial losses but also in ethical and environmental issues. Finally, deadstock can negatively impact a food producer’s reputation by having to dispose of expired or spoiled products. 

To manage dead stock, food producers in the UK can implement several strategies:

1. Instal NotaZone: By using inventory management platforms such as NotaZone, food producers can keep track of their stock levels in real time and set up automated reordering systems to ensure they never run out of stock on key products. 
2. Sales and discounts: Offering sales or discounts on dead stock products can help to move them off the shelves more quickly 
3. Donations: donating excess or expired food to charity or food banks can be a responsible way to dispose of dead stock while also helping those in need, especially in the current climate with a cost of living crisis in the UK.
4. Repackaging and repurposing: Dead stock can be repackaged or repurposed before the expiration date. This allows food producers to sell it again or use it as an ingredient in other products. 

Dead stock is a significant problem for food producers as it ties up valuable resources, leads to wasted products and can negatively impact a food business’s reputation. By implementing accurate stock control measures, carrying our stock takes, employing marketing tools such as sales and discounts, donating excess food or repacking and repurposing; food businesses can effectively manage deadstock. 

To manage your stock effectively, get started with NotaZone by booking your free demo.