Description
Successful retailers know that effective buying and inventory planning can make or break profitability. This comprehensive course provides the tools, strategies, and frameworks needed to become a successful retail buyer and inventory planner. You’ll begin by understanding the roles and responsibilities of a buyer—from trend research and market analysis to negotiation and vendor management. The course then delves into assortment planning, category management, open-to-buy (OTB) systems, and product life cycle optimization. Inventory control techniques such as just-in-time (JIT), economic order quantity (EOQ), and safety stock calculation are covered in depth. Learners will also work with demand forecasting models using both qualitative insights and quantitative tools like historical data, seasonal indices, and POS analytics. Emphasis is placed on aligning buying decisions with customer needs, financial goals, and merchandising strategies. Real-life retail case studies, supplier negotiation simulations, and planning worksheets are used to give hands-on experience. Whether you’re new to retail or aiming to sharpen your planning expertise, this course will equip you to balance product availability with profitability while minimizing excess stock and markdowns.
Azunwena –
A must for anyone in the buying role. The course breaks down vendor selection, seasonal trends, and budgeting in a way that’s both strategic and easy to follow.
Haruna –
Even as a non-retail background entrepreneur, I found the lessons clear and highly applicable. It gave me the confidence to manage inventory without relying solely on vendors.
Njobuanwu –
This course helped me finally understand how to balance stock levels with customer demand. I’ve reduced overstock and increased profits within just two months!
Oluwasegun –
Our store used to struggle with dead stock and missed sales. After taking this course, I implemented smarter reorder points and it’s made a huge difference.
Philomina –
Packed with real-world examples and actionable tools. The forecasting section was especially helpful—it’s now part of our monthly planning process.