Executives from American Eagle Outfitters and Dollar General showcased innovative uses of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to enhance their supply chains during the Manifest 2026 conference in Las Vegas. The retailers are leveraging advanced data analytics and AI systems to improve decision-making processes and operational efficiency.
At the conference, Brandon Friez, Senior Vice President of Global Logistics and Supply Chain Intelligence at American Eagle, detailed the retailer’s “layered intelligence approach.” This strategy integrates AI across four distinct layers of its logistics network. Friez emphasized the importance of accessing timely, accurate, and actionable data to make informed decisions swiftly. For instance, during a period of significant U.S. tariff announcements in April 2025, American Eagle utilized network simulations to evaluate various strategies for mitigating the financial impact of these tariffs.
Friez indicated that the company anticipated reducing the effects of U.S. tariffs by over 60% by early 2026. This reduction is attributed to enhanced transportation methods and shifts in sourcing strategies. Friez remarked, “It allowed us to make decisions that were, you know, millions of dollars in impact. Do we get every one perfect? Never. But it allowed us to stop, think, simulate, and then execute.”
On the other hand, Dollar General is also harnessing technology to streamline its supply chain operations. Rod West, Executive Vice President of Global Supply Chain, explained that AI and technological systems enable the retailer to segment store-bound orders more efficiently. This segmentation leads to a more optimized product mix tailored to the specific needs of each location.
The scheduling of inbound appointments has also improved, allowing Dollar General to prioritize which products enter its distribution network and when. The company operates 38 distribution centers across the United States. Furthermore, Dollar General has implemented an automated storage retrieval system in two of its distribution centers. This technology enhances storage density, boosts picking labor efficiency, and improves cube utilization, ultimately reducing outbound transportation requirements.
While the specific distribution centers utilizing the automated retrieval system were not disclosed, Todd Vasos, CEO of Dollar General, previously mentioned its application at a new facility in Arkansas during a 2024 earnings call. The overarching goal of these technological advancements is to elevate performance at the store level. West stated, “It’s important that we are doing things that are going to drive benefits end to end, and for us, that is a benefit that typically shows up in our store, the things that are going to allow them to have a better experience and to serve our customers in our stores more effectively and efficiently.”
As both retailers continue to integrate artificial intelligence and advanced technologies into their operations, the focus remains on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction. The developments discussed at the Manifest conference highlight the significant impact of technology on modern supply chain management.