merchandiser is a retail inventory specialist who ensures that products are available at the right time and place to increase sales and profits. Their responsibilities include:
Planning: Working with buyers to create product ranges and sales and stock plans
Analyzing: Monitoring consumer demand and market trends to identify products that will be in high demand
Displaying: Working with visual display staff to create attractive sales floor displays
Managing inventory: Monitoring warehouse inventory levels controlling stock levels and submitting inventory reports
Pricing: Determining the right price for products
Communicating: Liaising with buyers analysts stores suppliers and distributors
Forecasting: Forecasting sales and profits and planning budgets
Analyzing bestsellers: Analyzing bestsellers to ensure they reach their full potential
Monitoring competitors: Maintaining awareness of competitors performance
Reporting: Producing sales reports and making financial presentations to senior managers
Merchandisers may specialize as either retail merchandisers or visual merchandisers with visual merchandisers focusing on designing store layouts and product displays.
Some skills that are important for a merchandiser include:
Communication: Being able to collaborate with suppliers manufacturers and stores
Flexibility: Being able to adapt to changing market trends and customer preferences
Business acumen: Having an understanding of retail industry trends financial management and the markets competitive landscape
Computer literacy: Being able to use basic word processing tools to generate reports and analyze data
meeting with clients virtually or during sales visits. demonstrating and presenting products. establishing new business. maintaining accurate records. attending trade exhibitions, conferences and meetings. reviewing sales performance. negotiating contracts and packages.
Education
Graduation