When promo calendars lie: stitching letters to execution

Promo calendars are aspirational until stores actually print tickets and update POS. Silent overrides happen when regional merchants move dates, when suppliers miss ship windows, or when night crews improvise facings under pressure.

Forensic reviews overlay three layers: the official calendar, funding letters with fine print, and time-stamped photos from representative stores during trigger weeks. Mismatches earn plain-language owners—finance, supply, or field—so mitigation is actionable.

We emphasise respectful tone in retailer communications. The goal is prevention, not public blame. Most partners respond well when the evidence pack shows you invested in understanding their constraints.