Inventory Optimization & Supply PlanningFounder / COO / Head of Operations ($10M–$100M Brand)38 min read

How to Fix ABC-XYZ Classification in Supply Chain Management in 90 Days for $10M–$100M Companies

A 90-day execution framework for mid-sized brands to modernize ABC-XYZ segmentation, reduce working capital strain, and stabilize service levels.

Why 90 Days Is Enough to Create Structural Change

Mid-sized brands do not need a multi-year ERP transformation to fix ABC-XYZ classification. What they need is a structured 90-day execution plan.

When segmentation becomes dynamic and policy-linked, capital efficiency and service stability improve quickly.

The goal is not perfection—it is structural discipline.

Days 1–30: Diagnose and Establish Baseline

Audit current ABC-XYZ logic. Identify thresholds, calculation frequency, and data sources.

Measure inventory value by tier and identify capital concentration in C and Z classes.

Document stockout frequency in A-tier SKUs and inventory aging in long-tail items.

Days 31–60: Redesign and Align Policies

Recalculate contribution tiers using updated revenue and margin distribution.

Refine variability thresholds using baseline demand where possible.

Link segmentation tiers to differentiated safety stock policies.

Days 61–75: Introduce Automation and Alerts

Implement lightweight automation for recalculation and threshold monitoring.

Set alerts for volatility shifts and capital overexposure.

Days 76–90: Establish Governance Rhythm

Conduct monthly reviews covering reclassification drift, service performance, and working capital distribution.

Align segmentation reporting with finance dashboards.

Quick Wins to Target Within 90 Days

  • Reduce over-buffered C-class inventory.
  • Stabilize stockouts in AX SKUs.
  • Lower emergency freight expenses.
  • Improve visibility into capital allocation.

Expected Outcomes by Day 90

Mid-sized brands often observe measurable improvements in service stability and a gradual release of working capital.

Operational firefighting declines as segmentation becomes dynamic and policy-driven.

Common Risks During Implementation

Avoid overcomplicating rules or introducing excessive manual overrides.

Ensure cross-functional alignment between planning and finance.

Technology as an Accelerator

AI-native planning platforms compress this 90-day roadmap by automating recalculation and capital visibility.

90 Days to Structural Stability

ABC-XYZ classification does not require a complete system overhaul to improve.

With structured focus over 90 days, mid-sized brands can transition from reactive planning to disciplined inventory governance.

See how AI-native planning accelerates the 90-day ABC-XYZ transformation.

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