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Jobs in Merchandising

Merchandisers are responsible for ensuring that products appear in the right store location at the right time and in the right volumes. A Retail Merchandiser work closely with the Buying teams to accurately forecast trends, plan stock levels and monitor performance. Whilst the Buyer selects the lines, the Merchandiser decides how much money should be commited, how many lines should be bought, and in what quantities.

Merchandisers set the prices to maximise profit margins and manage the performance of the ranges, planning promotions and markdowns as necessary. They also oversee the delivery and distribution of the stock and deal with problems with suppliers as they arise.

Throughout the year, tasks typically involve:

• planning product ranges and preparing sales and stock plans in conjunction with buyers
• liaising with Buyers, Analysts, stores, suppliers and distributors
• maintaining a comprehensive library of appropriate data
• producing layout plans for stores
• forecasting profits and sales using computer programs especially MS Excel
• optimising the sales volume and profitability of designated product areas
• planning budgets and presenting sales forecasts and figures for new ranges
• controlling stock levels based on forecasts for the season
• analysing every aspect of the best and worst sellers (for example, the best selling price points, colours or styles)
• ensuring that best sellers are fully supported
• taking action to reduce prices or set promotions as necessary
• gathering information relating to the customer reaction to products
• analysing previous season's sales and reporting on the current season's lines
• accompanying buyers on visits to manufacturers to appreciate production processes
• meeting with suppliers and managing the distribution of stock, possibly negotiating cost prices with suppliers
• identifying production and supply difficulties and dealing with them as and when they occur
• managing, training and supervising Junior Merchandisers and Assistant Merchandisers