QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Thursday, August 6th, 2026

KWQC TV-6  Amana Colonies — where German roots grew into an American story KWQC TV-6

Amana Colonies — where German roots grew into an American story

A communal society that fled persecution in Europe found freedom — and a lasting home — in eastern Iowa

KWQC TV-6  US 20 bridge between Dubuque, E Dubuque to reopen soon KWQC TV-6

US 20 bridge between Dubuque, E Dubuque to reopen soon

The Iowa Department of Transportation said the span that connects Dubuque and East Dubuque will reopen at 6 p.m. Friday.

OurQuadCities.com International Clown Week: Let's make balloon animals! OurQuadCities.com

International Clown Week: Let's make balloon animals!

August 1-7 is International Clown Week, and we're looking at some of the skills clowns can use in their clowning. Clown Brian 'Stinky' Weckerly dropped by Our Quad Cities News to show us how to make some basic balloon sculptures.

OurQuadCities.com Foundation awards $260,000 in grants to Rock Island-Milan school district OurQuadCities.com

Foundation awards $260,000 in grants to Rock Island-Milan school district

On August 3, the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation (RIMEF) awarded a record-breaking $260,888 in Promoting Rock Island-Milan Education (PRIME) Grants to teachers and educators of the Rock Island-Milan School District for the 2026-2027 school year. The grants support innovative programs and classroom enhancements through individual teacher grants, department or school-wide grants and collaborative multi-school grants. [...]

Quad-City Times Miller-Meeks visits eastern Iowa companies in second Made in America Manufacturing tour Quad-City Times

Miller-Meeks visits eastern Iowa companies in second Made in America Manufacturing tour

Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks began her second annual Made in America Manufacturing tour at Wilton Precision Steel on the morning of Aug. 5.

KWQC TV-6  State asks court to deny case dismissal from woman charged with murdering newborn KWQC TV-6

State asks court to deny case dismissal from woman charged with murdering newborn

The state has responded to a request for the Johnson County Court to drop the case of a former Iowa City woman who is accused of killing her newborn son and putting him in the trash.

WVIK WVIK

Greetings from a wildlife park in central Sri Lanka that's a haven for elephants

At a time of increased conflict between elephants and humans, as elephant habitats are converted to intensive agriculture, the Hurulu Eco Park is a place where the animals can graze unimpeded.

KWQC TV-6  Trial scheduled for Iowa’s lawsuit against Roblox KWQC TV-6

Trial scheduled for Iowa’s lawsuit against Roblox

Court documents reveal a new trial date has been scheduled for Iowa’s lawsuit against the online gaming company Roblox.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Bailey Zimmerman, Sam Hunt announced for 2027 Mississippi Valley Fair

The Mississippi Valley Fair has announced country stars Bailey Zimmerman and Sam Hunt as grandstand acts for the 2027 fair.

OurQuadCities.com Empowering Abilities Boosters hold mums fundraiser OurQuadCities.com

Empowering Abilities Boosters hold mums fundraiser

The Empowering Abilities Booster Organization is welcoming fall with its second annual mum sale, featuring locally grown hardy mums, a news release says. Each purchase supports opportunities for adults with disabilities to build friendships, make memories and enjoy meaningful social connections. The Empowering Abilities Boosters are committed to providing fun, engaging social activities foradults with [...]

KWQC TV-6  Herbert Hoover Museum to reopen Thursday after major renovation KWQC TV-6

Herbert Hoover Museum to reopen Thursday after major renovation

The hometown of Iowa’s only U.S. President will celebrate the grand reopening of the newly-renovated museum dedicated to his life.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Clinton's data center ordinance passed on to City Council

The Plan Commission recommended a draft version of the ordinance, but it's up to City Council to decide which parts are included.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Morrison man charged with predatory criminal sexual assault following ISP investigation

A Morrison man is charged with three counts of predatory criminal sexual assault after an ISP investigation into alleged crimes in Illinois and Wisconsin.

WVIK Trump administration moves to deregulate Head Start, opening door for sweeping change WVIK

Trump administration moves to deregulate Head Start, opening door for sweeping change

It would slim regulation of the 60-year-old anti-poverty program and aim to save money. Advocates worry the changes could undermine the early education program's mission.

River Cities' Reader River Cities' Reader

Taboo Updates Summer 2026: Only Eight Congressmen Get the 411

Senator Rand Paul recently revealed an interesting, albeit jarring, fact about Congressional oversight of the intelligence community in D.C. Senator Paul explained that only eight members of Congress, four from the House Permanent Select Intelligence Committee (HPSIC) and four from the Senate Select Intelligence Committee (SSIC), are privy to the activities of the CIA and the FBI.

WVIK How Cambodia became the first Asian country to hit an elusive HIV target WVIK

How Cambodia became the first Asian country to hit an elusive HIV target

The United Nations has set a goal for near universal HIV diagnosis and treatment for all by 2030. No country in Asia has hit the mark — until this year.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Races return to Davenport Speedway after Mississippi Valley Fair

Only one race remains in the regular point season at Davenport Speedway. When racing returns to the track after the Mississippi Valley Fair, it will be Season Championship night. Among the many questions to be answered on Friday, Aug. 14: Will the IMCA Late Model class see a repeat winner? Through the first seven late [...]

KWQC TV-6  Galena High School set to welcome students back to $33 million campus KWQC TV-6

Galena High School set to welcome students back to $33 million campus

Construction crews have spent the last year gutting and rebuilding the high school campus.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Muscatine seeks seasonal-work applicants

The City of Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is seeking applicants for several season positions for 2026 including Program Instructor, Program Aide, and Seasonal Equipment Operator, a news release says These roles are ideal for students, individuals seeking temporary or flexible work, and community-minded residents interested in supporting recreational programs and park services. Seasonal employees [...]

WVIK 'Furious' is an unforgettable thriller, not just a 'Black Widow' remake WVIK

'Furious' is an unforgettable thriller, not just a 'Black Widow' remake

The new Hulu series stars Emmy Rossum as an FBI agent on the trail of a serial killer. It was inspired by Black Widow, but Furious totally transforms the 1987 film.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Almost daily shower and storm chances

Warm and humid conditions will turn hot again late this weekend. While the Quad Cities will see many dry hours each day over the next week, we'll also see many storm chances. Here's your full 7-day forecast.

OurQuadCities.com Iowa 2026 poll: Sand leads governor's race; Hinson holds narrow Senate advantage; Trump, Reynolds approval ratings underwater OurQuadCities.com

Iowa 2026 poll: Sand leads governor's race; Hinson holds narrow Senate advantage; Trump, Reynolds approval ratings underwater

A new Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media survey of Iowa voters in the race for Governorfinds 48% of voters support Democrat Rob Sand, while 43% support Republican Zach Lahn.Seven percent are undecided. In the race for U.S. Senate, 48% support Republican AshleyHinson, while 45% support Democrat Josh Turek. Six percent are undecided. “Driving Democratic competition in [...]

WVIK WVIK

The Hippie Priest

This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Earlier this summer, Father James Grubb celebrated the 40th year of his ordination with a solemn High Mass at his…

WVIK How deep-rooted medical bias creates deadly consequences for addiction patients WVIK

How deep-rooted medical bias creates deadly consequences for addiction patients

Addiction treatments are safe, effective — and rarely offered to patients. That's because many doctors and nurses still view people with alcohol or drug addiction with suspicion and hostility.

WVIK WVIK

Hospital staff said he was faking it and released him. He died from an overdose soon after

Addiction treatments are safe, effective — and rarely offered to patients. That's because many doctors and nurses still view people with alcohol or drug addiction with suspicion and hostility.

WVIK Celebrity culture is one thing. For TMZ, Congress is the new 'reality show' WVIK

Celebrity culture is one thing. For TMZ, Congress is the new 'reality show'

TMZ is trading Hollywood gossip for Capitol Hill scoops with a new D.C. bureau, launched in April. The online tabloid's two-man crew has brought an unconventional reporting style to the Congress beat.

WVIK The keepers of the Grateful Dead's history WVIK

The keepers of the Grateful Dead's history

The Grateful Dead understood the importance of recording its legacy. A number of archivists and historians are dedicated to maintaining the band's immense collection of music and memorabilia.

OurQuadCities.com Does permanent daylight saving time save energy? What studies have found OurQuadCities.com

Does permanent daylight saving time save energy? What studies have found

With a little less than three months until our clocks are set to "fall back" to standard time, the pressure to pass a bill that could prevent that is on, including from the Oval Office.

WVIK Senate committee set to vote on whether to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress WVIK

Senate committee set to vote on whether to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress

Republicans on the Senate Homeland Security Committee want to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress after he refused to answer their questions about the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

WVIK Drone with explosives found at German airport, official sees 'new quality' of threat WVIK

Drone with explosives found at German airport, official sees 'new quality' of threat

Regional police and prosecutors said an airport employee discovered a drone near the airport's south runway with "an unknown explosive device," and the object was examined by police

Wednesday, August 5th, 2026

KWQC TV-6  Traveling ‘Americans and the Holocaust’ exhibit coming to Burlington Public Library KWQC TV-6

Traveling ‘Americans and the Holocaust’ exhibit coming to Burlington Public Library

The Burlington Public Library will host the national Americans and the Holocaust Traveling Exhibition from Aug. 19 to Sept. 30, offering visitors a free, in‑depth look at how Americans understood and responded to the Holocaust through contemporary news, media and government communications.

KWQC TV-6  Galena 5K Stair Challenge marks 25th anniversary of 9/11 KWQC TV-6

Galena 5K Stair Challenge marks 25th anniversary of 9/11

The Galena Area EMS District will host the 5K Stair Challenge on Sept. 12, honoring 9/11 heroes and raising funds for local first responders through a family‑friendly run, walk and climb event in historic Galena.

OurQuadCities.com Numbers up for social security in Iowa and Illinois: What's next? OurQuadCities.com

Numbers up for social security in Iowa and Illinois: What's next?

Federal data from the end of 2025 shows more than two million people in Illinois and more than 717,000 people in Iowa get social security. As more than 70 million Americans utilize social security in some way, Our Quad Cities News NewsNation correspondent Gabrielle Caracciolo reports there's bipartisan agreement the financial problem can't be ignored.

KWQC TV-6  Iowa State football opens fall camp under first-year coach Jimmy Rogers KWQC TV-6

Iowa State football opens fall camp under first-year coach Jimmy Rogers

Iowa State football completed its first day of fall camp Wednesday under first-year head coach Jimmy Rogers, who takes over a roster with zero returning starters from last season.

KWQC TV-6  High school football preview: Moline Maroons KWQC TV-6

High school football preview: Moline Maroons

Moline football opened practice on the first official day of the fall season in Illinois, coming off a 9-2 record and a Western Big Six Conference championship in which the Maroons went undefeated in conference play.

OurQuadCities.com WATCH: Illinois House Speaker Welch breaks silence on ethics controversy OurQuadCities.com

WATCH: Illinois House Speaker Welch breaks silence on ethics controversy

When new allegations about Benton came to light earlier this year, Welch’s office said they submitted what had been documented in 2023 as part of their complaint.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

National Dek Hockey Summer Tournament kicks off in the Quad Cities

The tournament continues through Sunday, and games can be livestreamed.

OurQuadCities.com Gateway Bridge takes shape over Middle Road OurQuadCities.com

Gateway Bridge takes shape over Middle Road

The Iowa Department of Transportation plans to reconfigure the Interstate 80 and Middle Road Interchange, a news release says. Just south of that, the Gateway Bridge will allow walkers, runners, and bicyclists to cross Middle Road safely in one of the fastest-growing regions in the area that includes the TBK Bank Sports Complex, The Plex [...]

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Iowa DNR sharing changings to deer hunting season

8 counties in western Iowa will have more restrictions than the rest of the state. Hunters will have to decide where they hunt when they get a deer license.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Quad Cities International Airport to conduct mass casualty drill on Wednesday, Aug. 12

The Federal Aviation Administration mandates that a drill be done every three years.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Clinton data center ordinance advances to City Council

The planning council recommended a draft version of the ordinance, but council members can still decide which parts are included.

KWQC TV-6  Mississippi Valley Fair announces 2 performers for next year KWQC TV-6

Mississippi Valley Fair announces 2 performers for next year

The Mississippi Valley Fair might be underway, but you can start getting excited for next year.

KWQC TV-6  Davenport plans Goose Creek restoration using multiple grants KWQC TV-6

Davenport plans Goose Creek restoration using multiple grants

Davenport is using 8 to 9 state and local grants to restore Goose Creek, add bioretention cells, and improve nearby parks and trails. Construction starts this fall.

Quad-City Times Morrison man faces sexual assault charges Quad-City Times

Morrison man faces sexual assault charges

Illinois State Police arrested the man on Wednesday following an investigation into allegations of sexual crimes in Wisconsin and Illinois.

OurQuadCities.com Davenport takes next step to prevent trucks from hitting low railroad bridge OurQuadCities.com

Davenport takes next step to prevent trucks from hitting low railroad bridge

The Davenport City Council voted to take the next step to prevent trucks from hitting a low railroad bridge in the Village of East Davenport. The plan involves getting money from the State of Iowa. City council approved applying for a traffic safety improvement grant for $68,000 from the Iowa Department of Transportation. The money [...]

KWQC TV-6  Quad City Bank & Trust renews Riverfront Pops sponsorship for 5 years KWQC TV-6

Quad City Bank & Trust renews Riverfront Pops sponsorship for 5 years

Officials from the Quad City Bank & Trust and the Quad City Symphony Orchestra announced they’re extending the sponsorship through 2031.

KWQC TV-6  Illinois offers temporary sales tax reduction on back-to-school shopping KWQC TV-6

Illinois offers temporary sales tax reduction on back-to-school shopping

From Friday, Aug. 7, through Aug. 16 the state’s sales tax on school supplies will be reduced from 6.25% to 1.25%.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Iowa DNR changes deer hunting rules in 8 northwest Iowa counties

Under the new rules, general deer licenses in certain counties will only be valid for antlered bucks.

KWQC TV-6  Pritzker signs bills allowing state to review insurance rate hikes KWQC TV-6

Pritzker signs bills allowing state to review insurance rate hikes

The new laws, which take effect July 1, 2027, prohibit companies from charging “excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory” rates and prohibit them from shifting the cost of losses in other states onto Illinois consumers.

Quad-City Times Kewanee man faces DUI charge after pickup crashes into a building Quad-City Times

Kewanee man faces DUI charge after pickup crashes into a building

He faces drunken driving and other charges after his pickup crashed into a building in the 600 block of Edwards Street Tuesday evening, police said.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Illinois law expands assistance for homeless students

A new law in Illinois expands emergency assistance for students who are homeless. House Bill 4137 amends the Education for Homeless Children Act to allow school district to provide for an extended motel stay for students who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Previously, districts could only provide help with things like rent, [...]

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Davenport boy with cystic fibrosis selected as 2026 Iowa Kid Captain

6-year-old JJ Ward has been chosen as one of this year's Kid Captain. Over the years his family has raised thousands of dollars for cystic fibrosis research.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

CDC says cyclosporiasis outbreak has spread to Iowa

That brings the total number of affected states to 15. Illinois is also on the list.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Bridgeway planning behavioral health crisis center in Galesburg

Bridgeway plans to transform the former Knox-Galesburg Symphony building into a walk-in center for those experiencing a mental health or substance-use crisis.

KWQC TV-6  4-H kids showcase months of hard work at Mississippi Valley Fair KWQC TV-6

4-H kids showcase months of hard work at Mississippi Valley Fair

After months of raising, feeding and caring for their animals, 4-H members are finally stepping into the show ring to showcase their hard work.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

3 projects around the Quad Cities nominated for Iowa League of Cities community award

Projects in Bettendorf, Riverdale and Muscatine are in the running for the All-Star Community Award. The first round of voting closes on Aug. 14.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

National Democrats target Iowa congressional districts in House flip push with millions in spending

With 90 days until Election Day, national Democrats are targeting three Iowa congressional districts in a push to flip the U.S. House.

KWQC TV-6  Federal funding cuts cancel Imagination Station event KWQC TV-6

Federal funding cuts cancel Imagination Station event

long-time educational event for Quad Cities youth will not happen this year because of federal funding cuts.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Rain chances decrease for Keith Urban at the Mississippi Valley Fair tonight

As the Mississippi Valley Fair opened up yesterday, we were already seeing cloudy skies and some light showers from last night. We continue to see some more rain for this afternoon as one of the big performances is gearing up for the fair later tonight with Keith Urban. While the worst of the rain will [...]

OurQuadCities.com Quad Cities welcome Belgian professors looking to learn, educate OurQuadCities.com

Quad Cities welcome Belgian professors looking to learn, educate

Two Belgian professors, their son and grandson are exploring the Belgian culture in the Quad Cities, rich with countless Belgian immigrants searching for jobs, especially in Moline, where they have the Center for Belgian Culture. Dirk and Jan Wouters are Belgian professors. From 2016-2020, Dirk was the Belgium ambassador to the U.S. Nowmthey're looking to [...]

WQAD.com WQAD.com

New Farm Bill proposal includes support for year-round, nationwide E15 sales

After the language passed the House on its own in the spring, farmers are hoping adding it to the omnibus bill will give it a boost.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Meet one of the 3 local kids chosen for this year's Iowa Kid Captains

Six-year-old JJ Ward will be honored during Iowa's game at Washington on Friday, Oct. 9. He has been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office warns of scammers demanding bond money from inmates’ families

The sheriff said the Sheriff's Office will never call and demand bond money for inmates.

KWQC TV-6  Belgian Dignitaries make cultural connections, revisit history in QCA KWQC TV-6

Belgian Dignitaries make cultural connections, revisit history in QCA

Members of the Belgian Delegation make cultural connections while visiting the Quad Cities at the Wyndham Moline John Deere Commons.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Morrison man facing predatory sexual assault charges

Illinois State Police launched an investigation in May after receiving allegations of sexual crimes that happened in Wisconsin and Illinois, troopers said in a media release.

OurQuadCities.com Kewanee man arrested after vehicle crashes into building OurQuadCities.com

Kewanee man arrested after vehicle crashes into building

A Kewanee man was arrested for DUI after a vehicle crashed into a building. According to a release from the Kewanee Police Department, officers responded to the 600 block of Edwards St. August 4 at approximately 7:47 p.m. for a report of a vehicle that had struck a building. Initial information showed that the driver [...]

Quad-City Times Davenport man charged in sex abuse case pleads guilty Quad-City Times

Davenport man charged in sex abuse case pleads guilty

A Davenport man has entered guilty pleas in connection with the sexual abuse of an 11-year-old girl.

OurQuadCities.com QCA man faces Class X felony sexual-assault charges after bi-state investigation OurQuadCities.com

QCA man faces Class X felony sexual-assault charges after bi-state investigation

A 53-year-old Morrison man faces Class X felony charges of predatory criminal sexual assault, according to a news release from the Illinois State Police (ISP.) ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 2 special agents have arrested Brian S. Coers after a bi-state investigation. In May, ISP opened an investigation after receiving allegations of sexual crimes [...]

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Kewanee man charged with DUI after truck crashes into building

48-year-old Neil Gardner was charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving and more.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Quad City Bank & Trust to continue sponsoring Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra pop-up concerts

The sponsorship was extended for another 5 years.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Kewanee man arrested after truck crashes into building

48-year-old Neil Gardner was charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving and more.

OurQuadCities.com US cyclosporiasis cases on the rise OurQuadCities.com

US cyclosporiasis cases on the rise

All but three states have reported cases potentially linked to the outbreak.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Rock Island Public Library offers weekly events for 'littles' and school-aged kids

The Rock Island Public Library is offering weekly events for 'littles' and school-aged kids! According to a release, the Rock Island Public Library Downtown children’s room offers events for ages five and under every Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Additionally, Ready, Set, Build offers building fun for families from 3:00-5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 20 [...]

KWQC TV-6  Kewanee man charged after truck crashes into building, police say KWQC TV-6

Kewanee man charged after truck crashes into building, police say

A Kewanee man is facing several charges after a truck crashed into a building, police say.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Iowa confirms first case of West Nile virus in 2026

The case was detected in an adult from eastern Iowa.

WVIK Quad City Bank & Trust extends sponsorship of Riverfront Pops by five years WVIK

Quad City Bank & Trust extends sponsorship of Riverfront Pops by five years

Quad City Bank & Trust (QCBT) announced Wednesday, Aug. 5 that they are renewing their sponsorship of the Quad City Bank & Trust Riverfront Pops Concert for five more years.

WVIK Ousted Bangladeshi leader vows to return from exile despite facing a death sentence WVIK

Ousted Bangladeshi leader vows to return from exile despite facing a death sentence

Hasina's speech marked the second anniversary of her ouster. She fled Bangladesh by helicopter following nearly two months of protests in 2024 that left nearly 1,400 people dead, according to the United Nations.

WVIK First Iowa African Film Festival comes to Des Moines this weekend WVIK

First Iowa African Film Festival comes to Des Moines this weekend

The films will be screened at Drake University Aug 6-8. The festival ends on Aug. 8 with the Motherland Experience Festival, a day of African arts, culture and community.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

City of East Moline hires consultant to bring more retail business to the community

Under the partnership, Retail Strategies will work with the City to attract retail development to East Moline.

WVIK Dr. Erica Schwartz confirmed as CDC director, filling a leadership vacuum WVIK

Dr. Erica Schwartz confirmed as CDC director, filling a leadership vacuum

Schwartz takes command of a public health agency that has lost thousands of employees, amid layoffs, resignations and leadership turmoil.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

20th year of Trains, Planes & Automobiles coming to Geneseo

The event is being held Sept. 10 through 12 throughout Geneseo.

KWQC TV-6  Davenport man charged after 2 officers were injured during arrest, police say KWQC TV-6

Davenport man charged after 2 officers were injured during arrest, police say

Two Davenport police officers were injured while arresting a man Tuesday.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

WQPT PBS cancels Imagination Station for 2026, cites federal funding cuts

WQPT said it has lost federal funding that accounted for 53% of the station's annual operating budget.

North Scott Press North Scott Press

The new rules of grocery inventory: Why visibility matters

The new rules of grocery inventory: Why visibility mattersImagine walking into an independent grocery store at 7 a.m. Employees are stocking shelves, receiving deliveries, rotating produce, checking dates, and making final preparations for the morning’s customers. Doing all of this while juggling an early rush can make those morning hours a particularly hectic time for store operators.While other types of retail can carry inventory that sits on a shelf for months, the items a fresh food store carries can’t sit that long. The store has little control over vendor delivery times, and the majority of its items are sold on very thin margins. It’s not beneficial to let even a few of those items expire. This makes having an effective grocery store inventory management system one of the most critical competitive advantages an independent grocer can have.But inventory management in today’s supermarket goes beyond tracking what’s on offer in the store. Rapid POS looked at how the new methods of purchasing are being driven by advanced inventory management, which also serves to improve sales forecasting, reduce waste, and provide customers with the best shopping experience possible.Grocery Inventory Has Never Been More ComplexThe average supermarket today carries over 33,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs) of inventory, according to the Food Industry Association (FMI). These thousands of items can quickly become a business owner’s best friend or worst enemy.Some items sell every day, while others only move during holidays. Fresh produce changes with the seasons, certain vendors experience delays, and consumer buying habits shift with the economy.Manually tracking this data using spreadsheet software that can’t be integrated with other business management tools can be quite challenging, especially with a large inventory. At its worst, it may pose a risk to your bottom line.This information often lives in different programs: purchase contracts and ordered quantities in one, historical sales figures in another, invoices from vendors sent by email, and current stock figures noted down on paper by store staff.Instead of managing your store, you’re spending time gathering the information you need to do your job.Small Margins Leave Little Room for ErrorThe average supermarket has a net profit margin of approximately 2.1%, per the FMI. That means for every $100 in sales, the average supermarket realizes a net profit of $2.Because margins are tight, it adds gravity to every inventory decision. Dead stock fills your shelves with items nobody wants, but ordering too little will send customers somewhere else. On top of that, user error in the form of pricing mistakes can further reduce margins, and unnecessary markdowns chip away at profitability.These problems stem from thousands of products being managed by manual means, and the problems inherent in that approach. Modern inventory management systems provide a great deal of visibility to enable better product-buying decisions. Rapid POS Visibility Beats GuessworkExperienced grocery managers have traditionally made key inventory decisions based on experience. They knew which products sold well before football season, they knew when barbecue supplies would spike, and they remembered which holiday items needed larger orders. Even with better tools for managing inventory, that experience still matters. A good inventory management system supports a seasoned manager’s in-depth knowledge instead of trying to replace it.Imagine preparing your next purchase order while being able to see last year’s sales for the same period, your current inventory on hand, see that some products are selling faster than expected, and being able to note the slow-moving items taking up shelf space – it’s a much different starting point than just relying on memory!Inventory Isn’t Just About What’s on the ShelfInventory management is usually associated with counting products on the shelves, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. It influences purchasing, cash flow, shrink, customer satisfaction, labor, and even marketing.For example, using historical sales data for salsa, you’d know that it typically sells big in the summer, so you’d cross-merchandise salsa with chips, grilling supplies, and beverages that customers would also be buying that season. Dairy sales typically trend up prior to holidays, so with that knowledge you can adjust purchasing and staff accordingly. And if fresh bakery products are becoming waste before they can be sold, you know when to start running promotions for items at risk of spoilage.Good inventory data doesn’t just tell you what happened. It helps you understand why, and what to do next.Reducing Waste Without Sacrificing AvailabilityWaste is perhaps the greatest challenge facing grocery retail today. ReFED estimates that 31% of the food produced in the United States each year goes unsold or uneaten, with its value as potential lost sales estimated at $108 billion.Not all waste in the supply chain is the retailer’s concern, but the retailer does have a role to play. Better inventory visibility means managers can recognize slow-moving items sooner and departments can adjust ordering quantities while stock that’s close to expiration can be used for promotions. Decisions in the fresh departments can be based on sales history rather than assumptions.The goal isn’t simply to reduce waste, but to have the right products available for sale at the right time while minimizing losses of unsold products. That’s the difference between reactive and proactive inventory management. Rapid POS Forecasting Is Becoming a Competitive AdvantageFor many independent retailers, forecasting has meant referring to last year’s numbers and increasing them by a percentage to account for growth. That approach worked well when customer behavior stayed fairly consistent. Today, changes in consumer preferences happen at a different rate, and a more formalized approach to forecasting is needed.Supplier delivery schedules have always had occasional delays, but we see them more frequently. Seasonal weather shifts and local events can cause huge swings in sales; some products spiking while others decline. The independent stores that switch to a more informed decision-making process will come out ahead. It isn’t the size of the store that matters, it’s the people making the decisions.The grocery industry is moving toward smarter methods of inventory management, including artificial intelligence and advanced analytics, to keep inventory levels correct and eliminate unnecessary food waste. Most independent retailers don’t need the latest AI advances to see improvement; in most cases, simply putting the information they already have to better use is enough to bring about positive change.That means looking at questions like: Does a supplier consistently arrive late? Are seasonal items selling earlier each year? Which categories generate the highest margins? Which products end up on markdown on a regular basis? Store owners and managers can become proactive instead of reactive by identifying trends and making decisions based on this information.Inventory Should Support Every DepartmentInventory isn’t the buyer’s responsibility alone – and it affects the whole store, too. The produce department needs timely receipt of fresh inventory to stay full without unnecessary shrink. The meat department needs time to sell fresh product before it expires. Center-store managers want visibility into fast-moving items before shelves go empty. Front-end employees need correct pricing and stock information for customers. Even your marketing department benefits, too; there’s little value promoting an item that’s out of stock or running low.Every department relies on the same inventory information; ensuring it’s accurate helps a store function more efficiently.Bringing Your Systems TogetherMost problems in a grocery store aren’t technology problems. They’re issues that happen because the technology doesn’t communicate with other parts of the store. One system manages sales, while another tracks accounting. Another handles e-commerce, while reports come from somewhere else. Inventory counts get updated manually, and the extra hours land on the retailer’s staff.A modern inventory management system ties together the various components of a store’s business, automatically linking inventory, purchasing, customer, reporting, and sales data into one central place to view information and make decisions. A connected system reduces the work a manager has to do, increases the accuracy of counts, and gives the manager the insight they need to see how the store is actually performing.Five Ways Connected Grocery Technology Makes a DifferenceTechnology at a grocery store should make running the store easier, not more complicated. Here are five ways a connected system helps:Make purchasing decisions with confidence. Use historical sales data, seasonality, and current stock levels to make more informed purchasing decisions and reduce overstocking.Reduce shrink before it happens. Identify slow-moving products before they become waste. Real-time inventory data lets managers adjust price, run a promotion, or change future buying habits before an item goes bad.Improve customer loyalty. Inventory and customer information can be your most valuable assets — and they’re even more powerful together. Being able to offer personalized promotions helps build loyalty and rewards customers.Gain better business insights. Running a simple report should never require you to export spreadsheets from multiple programs. Owners that have real-time visibility into their sales trends, department performance, vendors, inventory turnover, and profit can use the time they save to invest in other parts of the business.Manage multiple locations more efficiently. Up-to-date inventory information across store locations is essential. A connected multichannel point-of-sale (POS) system lets managers see inventory, sales, vendors, turnover, and profitability across every location. Rapid POS This story was produced by Rapid POS and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Stove fire damages East Dubuque duplex, kills 3 animals

An accidental stove fire caused an estimated $75,000 in damage to an East Dubuque duplex Tuesday morning. Three animals were found dead inside.

Quad-City Times Elementary students in Silvis celebrate first day of school Quad-City Times

Elementary students in Silvis celebrate first day of school

George O. Barr Elementary School students celebrated the first day of school with some surprise guests.

OurQuadCities.com Learn about obesity at Dr. V.R. Alla Community Symposium OurQuadCities.com

Learn about obesity at Dr. V.R. Alla Community Symposium

Obesity affects millions of Americans and is recognized as a chronic disease that can contribute to serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes and sleep issues. Trinity Health Foundation is hosting the 18th annual Dr. V.R. Alla Community Symposium on Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at Bally’s Quad Cities Casino & Hotel, [...]

Quad-City Times Quad City Animal Welfare Center holding open house for 10th anniversary of clinic Quad-City Times

Quad City Animal Welfare Center holding open house for 10th anniversary of clinic

QCAWC Spay/Neuter and Wellness Clinic in Milan is inviting the community to an open house later this month to mark its 10th anniversary.

OurQuadCities.com Quad City Bank & Trust renews sponsorship of Riverfront Pops OurQuadCities.com

Quad City Bank & Trust renews sponsorship of Riverfront Pops

Quad City Bank & Trust (QCBT) announced its renewed sponsorship of the Quad City Bank & Trust Riverfront Pops Concert for five additional years at a press conference in LeClaire Park in Davenport. This year is the final year of the current sponsorship contract with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO). Representatives from QCBT and [...]

WVIK How Midwest doldrums became a gift for Kevin Morby WVIK

How Midwest doldrums became a gift for Kevin Morby

Morby's Little Wide Open is a love letter to a part of the country he finds endlessly inspiring.

KWQC TV-6 Peoria bomb squad called after explosive device found in Canton KWQC TV-6

Peoria bomb squad called after explosive device found in Canton

Authorities said Peoria’s bomb squad was called to Canton on Tuesday to defuse an explosive device in a vehicle, and search for bomb making material in a Farmington home.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Davenport firefighters contain Harrison Street apartment fire

Davenport firefighters quick response stopped a Harrison Street building fire Tuesday night, keeping all residents safe and uninjured.

Quad-City Times WQPT PBS’ annual Imagination Station outreach event canceled for 2026 due to federal cuts Quad-City Times

WQPT PBS’ annual Imagination Station outreach event canceled for 2026 due to federal cuts

WQPT PBS will not host its annual Imagination Station outreach event this year due to the loss of over 50% of its annual operating budget in federal funding cuts.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

The most common jobs in Iowa and Illinois: Federal data

State-by-state differences show how regional economies shape employment.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Rock Island Arsenal honoring outgoing commander with cannon fire

QC residents may hear cannon fire later this week as Rock Island Arsenal hosts two ceremonies for an outgoing commander. Cannon fire will be heard coming from Rock Island Arsenal on Thursday, August 6 and Friday, August 7 for the First Army Relinquishment of Command ceremony honoring LTG Mark Landes and his retirement ceremony. The [...]

KWQC TV-6  Rock Island-Milan Schools superintendent outlines priorities ahead of first day KWQC TV-6

Rock Island-Milan Schools superintendent outlines priorities ahead of first day

Superintendent Sharon Williams shares details on academic goals, school safety upgrades, and attendance priorities as Rock Island-Milan students return.

Quad-City Times Rivermont Collegiate names new head of school for upcoming school year Quad-City Times

Rivermont Collegiate names new head of school for upcoming school year

Richard Wiley will lead the private school for the next year, having decades of experience in education.

OurQuadCities.com Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! OurQuadCities.com

Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know!

Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: REGGION ANDERSON, 25, 5’9”, 120 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Wanted by Iowa Department of Corrections District 7 High Risk Unit on probation violations [...]

KWQC TV-6  Davenport police to host Cops and Cones KWQC TV-6

Davenport police to host Cops and Cones

Davenport police are hosting their annual Cops and Cones event Tuesday, offering free ice cream and a chance to connect with local officers.

OurQuadCities.com Enjoy free ice cream, meet officers at Cops and Cones, Davenport OurQuadCities.com

Enjoy free ice cream, meet officers at Cops and Cones, Davenport

The Davenport Police Association invites residents to the annual Cops and Cones Ice Cream Social at Vander Veer Botanical Park, 215 W. Central Park Avenue, on Tuesday, August 11 from 6 – 8 p.m. The event is family-friendly and will be held near the playground, offering the public an opportunity to enjoy a free ice [...]