POS Data

POS data refers to point of sale data, and you may also hear this referred to as scan data or even chain data. This data looks at items scanned at retail. If it has a barcode (UPC) and goes through a register then that purchase is collected and represented in POS data. Providers like IRi and Nielsen specialize in POS data for their CPG clients. This data is especially useful in trying to get a market level understanding of what's happening in your industry. It helps inform high-level sales trends and gives insight into what your competition is up to. Trying to sell into a chain account for the first time? They typically won't let you in the door without data, and POS data will help you speak the same language in those meetings.