CHICAGO -- SPSS Inc., a provider of predictive analytics software, has teamed up with Pep Boys. The retail auto parts chain is using SPSS predictive analytics software to develop assortment planning models. Pep Boys is harnessing SPSS software to create forecast models for predicting future sales probability by part number and by store to create store-specific assortments.

Pep Boys operates 593 stores and more than 6,000 service bays in 36 states and Puerto Rico. Along with its vehicle repair and maintenance capabilities, the company also serves the commercial auto parts delivery market and is one of the leading sellers of replacement tires in the U.S.

"SPSS predictive analytics software will help us to develop a store-level demand model which will yield substantially better category management for parts and a better in-stock position for our customers," said Robert Sammons, vice president of parts for Pep Boys.

"We're very proud that Pep Boys is deploying SPSS," said SPSS President and CEO Jack Noonan. "SPSS software is helping Pep Boys better serve its customers by gaining enhanced insight into their product preferences. This demonstrates the growing utility of predictive analytics and its ability to identify key process improvements throughout the public and private sectors."

Sixteen of the top 20 retailers worldwide use SPSS software for such applications as customer understanding, operational efficiency, and product development.

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