Retail Merchandiser

Also known as:

Merchandiser, Retail

Introduction

Retail merchandisers decide which products should be stocked by department stores or supermarkets. They ensure that the correct mix of products are stocked and displayed, in order to maximise profits.

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Work Activities

Retail merchandisers make sure that the correct mix of products are displayed in a way that will achieve the best sales for their company. Duties vary between different companies, but all merchandisers liaise closely with buyers, store management and suppliers.

With buyers, merchandisers decide which products should be stocked for each type and size of store. By listening to comments from store management they gather information regarding customers' reactions to products, which may then be used in negotiations with suppliers regarding packaging designs.

Information technology has had a dramatic impact on the work of merchandisers. With most companies now using EPOS (electronic point of sale) systems, they are able to access and analyse sales information from any of their company's stores.

This information helps both merchandisers and buyers forecast sales and profits, and plan budgets. The retail merchandiser may also use this information alongside a space management software program, to produce layout plans for stores.

While most work is office based, some local travel to retail outlets may be required. Occasionally, retail merchandisers may be expected to work long hours away from home - at the opening of a new store, for example.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be a retail merchandiser, you have to be an effective communicator, a firm negotiator and have an analytical mind. You should also be computer literate and be at ease working with figures.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Retail merchandisers earn in the range of £12,500 - £14,500 a year, rising to around £16,500 - £21,000. Higher earners can make around £23,500 a year.

Merchandisers usually work a basic 35-39 hour week, Monday to Friday.

Employers throughout the UK are the well-known high street chains and large independent retailers.

Competition is fierce and experience of having worked in retailing is a definite advantage.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have developed relevant skills by working in retailing as a merchandising or purchasing assistant.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (eg, Access to Business) could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

• 8% of retail merchandisers work part-time.
• 16% have flexible hours.
• 2% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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