Retail and Wool Buyer
The job description of a retail buyer holds quite a few similarities to that of a wool buyer. While wool buyers are only tasked with assessing and purchasing wool, however, retail buyers must work in a variety of formats and assess and purchase a variety of goods for resale in retail establishments.
Duties and tasks
- Appraising retail products
- Determining the needs of particular markets
- Monitoring stocks and sales levels for insights into markets
- Negotiating with wholesalers and other sellers for a mutually satisfactory price
- Researching consumer trends and desires
- Selecting retail products for particular retail outlets
- Working with the management of various individual stores to assess needs and determine sale prices
Skills required
- Ability to persuade others
- Active listening skills
- High interpersonal capabilities
- Negotiation skills
- Oral and written communication
Working conditions
Retail Buyers often work for larger retail or commercial outfits. They may visit wholesalers or other sellers on a regular or irregular basis. Retail buyers sometimes work on a freelance or entrepreneurial basis, and in this case, will often sell to smaller outlets.
Professional associations / Industry information
ARA Retail Institute
National Retail Association
Service Skills Australia
Related jobs and job titles
- Commodities Trader
- Importer and Exporter
- Retail Manager
- Sales Representative
- Technical Sales Representative