FACTORYSHELFOperations answers
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Consumer brand operations questions, answered

Short answers first, then the page that goes deeper or the calculator that gives you your own number.

What does a fractional COO do for a consumer brand?

Runs inventory and cash, sourcing and production, 3PL and freight, systems, and the operating plan, one to two days a week.

How much does a fractional COO cost?

Fixed-fee audits by revenue band, then a monthly retainer for one to two days a week. Real ranges are on the page.

How do I get ready to ship a big retailer?

Item setup, GS1 barcodes, case packs, EDI, ASN timing, labels, and an appointment. Miss one and it comes back as a deduction.

What does a retail purchase order actually earn?

Wholesale price minus landed cost, freight to their DC, and allowances. Run your own numbers in the calculator.

What is landed cost and what belongs in it?

Factory price plus inbound freight, duty, tariffs, insurance, drayage, and brokerage, divided by units that arrive sellable.

Which systems do consumer brands actually run?

An ERP or inventory system, a 3PL, EDI for retail, a planning tool, and a freight partner. The stack page lists what each one is for.