How better forecasting can fix your cash flow
Poor cash flow isn't always about weak sales or slow-paying customers.
Often, it's down to something simpler but harder to spot: inaccurate forecasting. Wholesalers navigating seasonal shifts and fluctuating demand know this frustration well. Misjudged forecasts can mean stockrooms piled high with unsold goods or empty shelves that disappoint customers. Either way, the result is the same - cash flow becomes strained, and opportunities slip away.
At Orderwise, we understand that forecasting is more than just predictions. It's your business's roadmap, guiding critical decisions and ensuring your cash is invested where it counts most.
When forecasting goes wrong, cash flow pays the price
Inaccurate forecasts have ripple effects across your entire business. Maybe you've stocked up for a seasonal rush that never arrives, leaving capital stuck in slow-moving inventory. Perhaps you've underestimated demand, missing out on profitable sales while scrambling to catch up. These aren't just inconveniences; they're direct hits to your financial health, impacting your ability to invest, grow, and compete effectively.
Why forecasting can be be challenging
Forecasting isn't easy, especially in wholesale and distribution. Customer demands shift quickly, seasons change, and new products emerge. Many businesses rely on instinct, past experiences, or spreadsheets, none of which provide the accuracy needed to avoid costly mistakes. Every miscalculation compounds, quietly undermining profits and stability over time.
Turning complexity into clarity
Orderwise transforms forecasting from an uncertain guess to precise planning:
Real-time cash flow visibilityIntegrated, up-to-date financial data provides clarity, enabling better-informed decisions and improved cash management. | Smart demand forecastingData-driven predictions based on historical sales, seasonal trends, minimum and maximum stock levels, lead times, and sales order data. |
Automated purchase planningAutomatically generate precise purchase orders aligned with forecasted demand, ensuring optimal stock levels without tying up unnecessary capital. | Integrated financial reportingGet immediate visibility into margins, profitability and cash flow across your entire business, streamlining financial management. |
Flexible seasonal planningEasily manage fluctuations in demand with proactive adjustments, ensuring you’re prepared rather than reactive. | Intuitive financial dashboardsClear, visual representations of financial performance help identify risks early and keep cash flow healthy. |
“Being demand driven and dealing with expiry dated products, it’s important that we’re not buying too many products so as to reduce the risk of wastage. Orderwise gives us tight control of stock and key information is available at a glance, so we can see how many products we’re selling and to where we’re selling them.”
Michael Timms, Commercial Stock Manager at Oxford Pharmacy Store
Confidence in every decision
Better forecasting doesn't just prevent mistakes - it unlocks opportunities. With accurate forecasting, you'll know exactly how much to order, when to order it, and how to price it. You'll see clearly where your cash is going and make informed decisions that support long-term growth.
A clear, data-driven approach to forecasting transforms cash flow management, moving your business from reaction to anticipation. It positions you to act decisively, confidently navigating market shifts rather than constantly chasing them.
Ready to take control?
Forecasting doesn't have to be complicated. With Orderwise, you'll gain clear visibility and control, stabilise your cash flow, and set your business up for lasting success.
If you're ready to see the difference better forecasting can make, let's talk.