After years of working in warehouse distribution, I still get excited about forecasting. The correct forecast, identifying sales trends, fluctuation in lead time, and seasonality are key to success.Forecasting and buying over 20,000 items both Import and domestic with lead times from a few days to six months have its challenges but with the right tools you can deliver every time and maintaining a 98% or better service goal on top-selling items is easy.I’ve been very fortunate to work for the same company for many years, I started on the loading dock, then pulled orders, even drove the delivery truck for a year when a colleague was injured, worked my way into inventory and eventually purchasing where the passion exploded. In 2000 I worked directly with the IT team to develop remote access giving our buyers the ability to connect to the company’s main system and the AWR software from home or anywhere you had a Wi-Fi signal. This improved our productivity immensely. Today working remotely is more essential than ever before.Since Sbar’s Inc. purchased the AC Moore chain and corporate DC in 2011 I have maintained all my purchasing duties at Sbar’s Inc. while successfully managing the day to day purchasing duties at AC Moore corporate.I negotiated with suppliers a more efficient and profitable way to order and receive goods into the corporate DC. On the high-volume items, we started ordering by container, pallet or layer at a reduced cost, on the slower movers I negotiated a reduced case quantity to minimize our investment.Outside of work, I am an avid singles tennis player. I love the one on one competition with no one to blame but yourself if you don’t win. I’m involved with several charities that hit close to home one being prostate cancer research because 9 years ago I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Luckily, I chose to have it successfully removed and remain cancer-free. I’m also involved and donate to The American Institute for Cancer, Disabled American Veterans, United Spinal Association, Paralyzed Veterans Association, The Humane Society, and the ASPCA.I am also available for a consultation role.www.linkedin.com/in/brian-piotrowicz Sbars14@aol.com bpiotrowicz344437@comcast.net