Viva Energy to modernize OTR network with AI-powered retail platform
Australia’s largest convenience operator aims to improve demand forecasting, inventory management, and in-store experience.
Viva Energy Australia is embarking on a major digital transformation of its subsidiary OTR Group, as it plans to deploy an AI–driven platform to overhaul category management, demand forecasting, and inventory optimization across its stores.
The new system, provided by Blue Yonder, will enable OTR to tailor store assortments to local customer preferences and predict demand more accurately across its nationwide footprint. By integrating AI and machine learning, the platform will support store-level forecasting by SKU and day, optimize inventory levels through segmentation and safety stock calculations, and automatically align replenishment with evolving consumer behaviors.
Natalie Dalbo, Chief Customer Officer at OTR Group, said the modernization effort is a critical next step in the company’s growth strategy. “Following the acquisition of major convenience store networks, we recognized the need to standardize range management, demand forecasting, and fulfilment processes across our business,” Dalbo said.
OTR operates around 1,000 service stations across Australia under brands including Shell Reddy Express, On The Run (OTR) and Store24, as well as 100 quick-service restaurants and 275 Smokemart & Giftbox stores.
The shift from legacy systems to integrated, data-driven tools is expected to enhance OTR’s operational efficiency and responsiveness. With continued expansion following its strategic acquisitions of Coles Express and OTR/SMGB networks, Viva Energy seeks to unify and modernize its operations on a single digital platform.
