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Retail Turnaround

Case Interview Practice > 
Synthesis

Based on the analyses so far, outline a ninety day turnaround plan to stabilize liquidity. What actions would you take in the first thirty days versus the following sixty days, and what are the key risks to execution?

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Stabilize liquidity within ninety days by stopping cash leakage, accelerating cash inflows, and restoring short term control over operations.

First 30 days immediate stabilization
The priority in the first month is visibility and cash containment. Management should implement a rolling weekly cash forecast and enforce strict spend controls across the business. Excess and aged inventory should be aggressively liquidated, particularly in bottom performing stores, to convert stock into cash quickly. Labor hours should be reduced to minimum viable levels in cash negative locations, and all non essential initiatives and capital spend paused. Vendor communication should be centralized, with a focus on maintaining supply continuity while managing near term outflows.

Days 31 to 90 cash generation and stabilization
Once immediate leakage is addressed, the focus should shift to sustaining positive cash generation. Middle tier stores should be stabilized through selective markdowns and tighter labor scheduling. Inventory buying should be reset to align with realistic demand, reducing future buildup. Store level performance tracking should be implemented to ensure accountability and prevent relapse into cash negative behavior. Where appropriate, short term renegotiation of vendor terms can provide additional liquidity buffer.

Key execution risks
Aggressive markdowns may permanently damage brand perception if not carefully targeted. Labor reductions risk operational disruption and employee attrition if communication is poorly managed. Vendor relationships could deteriorate further if payment plans are unclear or inconsistent. Finally, lack of discipline in execution could cause the business to slip back into cash burn once initial actions are complete.

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