Fashion Buyer Vs Fashion Merchandiser
A fashion buyer is a specialist who is responsible for buying, sourcing, and selling clothing for retail consumption. He or she analyzes the market and trends and chooses products that meet the needs of the company. This person is also a key player in the supply chain, managing the logistics of acquiring and delivering items. They may also be responsible for arranging the environment of the store to maximise sales.
When a buyer visits a supplier, he or she will study the product to determine whether it is suitable for the brand. If the product is too expensive, he or she will try to negotiate the price down. In addition, the buyer must consider the purchasing patterns of the company’s customers. Ideally, the fashion buyer is an expert on the fashion industry, having a thorough understanding of past and future fashion trends.
The fashion buyer works for a retailer or a wholesaler. Depending on the company, he or she may be assigned to particular product areas or departments. For example, the buyer for a large department store might be responsible for women’s clothing. Alternatively, the buyer for a smaller retailer might be in charge of dresses and accessories.
As a fashion buyer, you will need to have excellent communication skills and the ability to spot trends. You will also need to be detail-oriented, have a good eye for design, and know how to analyse numbers. Other skills that are valuable for this position include creativity, marketing, interpersonal relations, and organisational skills.
While the title of a fashion buyer may be interchangeable with that of a merchandiser, the two are actually very different positions. Merchandisers are more involved in the design of the products and display them in a manner that appeals to customers. Their duties also involve promoting new products in other forms of media. Merchandisers are responsible for working with suppliers, designers, and on-floor retail personnel to help promote products and new collections.
Most buyers work full time, requiring about 40 hours per week. Some positions require that the buyer attend fashion shows. Others will have to travel to various trade shows and exhibitions to get a glimpse of upcoming trends.
Both the fashion buyer and the merchandiser need to be creative and logical, though the role of the buyer is broader. The buyer studies the market and trends, while the merchandiser is responsible for developing and presenting the products in an attractive way.
While there are many differences between a buyer and a merchandiser, they both have their own niche in the fashion industry. A buyer is often given a specific area to work in, while a merchandiser is more flexible and may be able to work in a variety of roles. Many employers look for candidates with marketing experience and those who have worked in other roles in the fashion industry.
Fashion merchandising is a very important part of the fashion industry, as it helps to sell clothes to customers in a manner that is appealing to them. Merchandisers work closely with designers, marketing experts, and sales staff to promote and sell new products.
Fashion Buyer Vs Fashion Merchandiser