Principles of Retail Buying (M BUS-20253 DIGITAL BUSINESS CLASS 2)

Course Description: Focuses on the role of the retail buyer in merchandise planning, vendor relations, assortment decisions, and financial performance. Emphasis on fashion, FMCG, and digital retail sectors.

Learning Outcomes:

· Understand the buyer’s role in retail organizations

· Apply demand forecasting and assortment planning

· Evaluate vendor negotiation and sourcing strategies

· Manage inventory, margins, and profitability

Weekly Breakdown (14 Weeks):

1. Introduction to Retail Buying: Roles & Responsibilities

2. Merchandise Planning & Budgeting

3. Demand Forecasting Techniques

4. Sources of Buying Information (market research, trend analysis)

5. Vendor Selection & Negotiation

6. Assortment Planning & Category Management

7. Pricing & Gross Margin Management

8. Inventory Control & Stock Turnover

9. Private Labels & Brand Strategy

10. Fashion Buying & Seasonal Trends

11. Technology in Buying (ERP, AI, Big Data)

12. Ethical & Sustainable Buying Practices

13. Case Studies: Retail Buying in ASEAN (Zalora, Matahari, Uniqlo Indonesia)

14. Buyer Simulation Project