Asda has announced the successful migration of 21 food depots from previous owner Walmart's systems to its new SAP platform, an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system designed to manage business processes including finance, logistics and procurement.

The move forms part of a long-term initiative called Project Future, which focuses on modernising operations, investing in technology and enhancing customer experience across stores and digital platforms.

Gemma McFarlane, head of portfolio, supply chain systems at Asda, celebrated the achievement in a LinkedIn post on Saturday, describing it as a "big milestone" for the firm. She emphasised the accelerated pace of the mission: "Depot 1: October; Depot 2: January; Depot 3: April... then we hit full throttle and delivered 19 depots in just 15 weeks — including 3 in 3 days, which must be an industry first!"

Alongside the SAP migration, Asda converted its warehouse management system (WMS) to Manhattan Active, a modern, cloud-native platform developed by Manhattan Associates. The new system was integrated with SAP in September 2024, whilst the retailer converted the WMS of its general merchandise import centre to Manhattan Active and integrated it with SAP in June this year, McFarlane said.

She described the transition as a "huge learning experience," adding: "It was exhilarating, purposeful, rewarding — and yes, a lot of the time, it was fun too!"

Project Future encompasses training and upskilling opportunities for Asda's employees, helping them adapt to new technologies and roles as the retailer continues transforming the business and preparing for sustainable growth. The initiative includes technical and innovative developments ranging from smarter checkout systems to improved online shopping experiences, aiming to make shopping more seamless and personalised.

The retailer has recently begun trialling AI-powered shelf-scanning cameras in five of its UK stores, aiming to optimise inventory management and reduce waste. Developed in partnership with software specialist Focal Systems, the technology leverages deep learning and edge computing to process data locally and integrate it with retailers' systems for operational improvements. The cameras are mounted on poles at the top of shelves, each scanning approximately two and a half metres of shelf space.

Operating hourly, the cameras detect available, out-of-stock or low-stock items, spoiled products and misplaced items. This provides real-time visibility of shelf conditions and is intended to enhance inventory accuracy, reduce food waste and improve product availability for customers.

Retailers across the UK and Europe are increasingly upgrading automation processes by implementing deep learning, AI and robotics. In August, Marks & Spencer (M&S) announced a £340 million investment in developing an advanced automated food distribution centre in Northamptonshire, expected to open in 2029. This marks the largest supply chain investment in the company's history and supports its ambition to double the size of its food business.

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