Equal allocation is simple, but it rarely reflects equal demand. Multi-location operators need a repeatable way to divide opening stock, protect presentation and move inventory before one store stocks out while another carries excess.
Set a presentation minimum
Define the minimum number of sellable units or facings required for each location to present the item correctly. This is the base allocation before demand is considered.
Keep presentation stock separate from safety stock. The two quantities solve different problems and should not be combined without explanation.
Weight the remaining units by local demand
Use recent category or comparable-item sales at each location. For a disposable format, compare the disposable vapes category before adjusting the allocation to local demand. When the SKU is new, choose a documented proxy such as the same format or price band. Record the period and proxy so the allocation can be reviewed.
Cap the share assigned to one store when the opening quantity is still a test. The goal is to learn across locations without hiding all the evidence in the highest-volume shop.
Create a transfer trigger
Define when a store should offer inventory to another location, who approves the transfer and how units are recorded. A trigger may combine days without a sale and weeks of supply rather than using age alone.
Transfers should preserve item identifiers and receiving history. Otherwise the central report may look improved while the inventory record becomes unreliable.
Assign reorder ownership
Choose whether each location reorders independently or a central buyer controls replenishment. The decision affects lead time, minimum quantities and the visibility of stock already on order.
Review stockouts, transfers and overages together. A location that appears to sell through quickly may simply be receiving too little at the start.
Worked allocation example
Assume 30 units are available for three stores. A presentation minimum of four units per store uses 12 units. Allocate the remaining 18 units using documented category-demand weights of 50%, 30% and 20%.
| Location | Base units | Demand-weight share | Rounded opening allocation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Store A | 4 | 9.0 | 13 |
| Store B | 4 | 5.4 | 9 |
| Store C | 4 | 3.6 | 8 |
The rounded result still totals 30 units. For a new item, cap any one location’s allocation if concentrating most units would prevent a meaningful test elsewhere. Record the proxy category and sales period used for the weights.
Transfer decision record
Each transfer should record the exact SKU, quantity, sending and receiving locations, approval owner, reason and date received. Review transfers alongside stockouts: repeated transfers in the same direction may mean the next opening allocation should change.
Action checklist
- Define a presentation minimum by location type.
- Allocate remaining units using a documented demand weight.
- Cap opening depth for unproven items.
- Create transfer triggers and approval ownership.
- Record transfers with the exact SKU and quantity.
- Review allocation errors before the next wholesale order.
Use the plan with your next wholesale order
Use the wholesale contact page to discuss pack quantities and order planning for a multi-location business.