Modern Merchandising

The Art & Science of Demand Sensing

Modern fashion retail demands more than static forecasts and guesswork. With margins under pressure and demand signals growing more complex, merchandising teams need a better way forward. Enter demand sensing — a powerful blend of machine learning, dynamic data, and human expertise.

This guide unpacks how forward-thinking retailers are using demand sensing to sharpen buy plans, improve allocation, and respond in real time to what customers actually want. Learn why status quo methods fall short, what makes demand sensing different, and how to implement a system that fuels speed and profitability.

Whether you're leading a planning team or exploring AI solutions for merchandising, this resource will help you understand the strategy and tools needed to compete — and win — in today’s omnichannel landscape.

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What’s Inside

A breakdown of five common forecasting challenges in apparel and footwear retail — and why they persist

An exploration of how demand sensing differs from traditional forecasting methods

The five essential features that power an effective demand sensing system

A framework for blending AI-driven science with human merchandising expertise

Real-world use cases showing how leading brands improve margin, in-stock rates, and speed to decision

A detailed look at how Syrup Tech enables demand sensing across planning, buying, and allocation workflows