Retail Buyer

Retail buyers purchase goods to be sold in retail stores. They may purchase goods locally, interstate or overseas.

Retail buyers may perform the following tasks:

obtain information from store executives, salespeople and sales records data about stock levels and fast- and slow-moving goods
consider which goods will sell well in particular locations and what prices customers are prepared to pay
research customer demands and trends by processing store sales and inventory reports
manage and analyse stock levels and order points using computers and statistics
try to anticipate changes in customer demand for particular goods, as goods must be purchased well before their sale to customers
inspect, compare and select goods at manufacturers' or agents' premises
contact suppliers to replenish stocks
be aware of relevant legal information such as consumer rights and store licensing
communicate frequently with store management to discuss planning, budgeting, sales promotions and advertising campaigns
attend trade fairs and other displays interstate and overseas to obtain information about the range of products available.

Specialisations:

With experience and sometimes further training, it is possible to become a supervisor or manager.

In large department stores, buyers may specialise in certain types of merchandise (e.g. textiles, fashion, hardware or toys). In a national chain of stores, such specialist buyers may purchase merchandise for all stores, or nominate brands to be stocked.

In small businesses, owners normally do their own retail buying after consultation with their staff.

Personal Requirements:

enjoy clerical and administrative activities
strong analytical skills
knowledge of, or an interest in, the retail market
good communication skills
good negotiating skills
good planning and organisational skills
good with numbers
willing to travel.

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