Buying and merchandising assistant apprenticeship

Help bring products to market for retailer buying or merchandising teams

Buying and merchandising assistant roles are typically found in the retail sector, across a range of different types of companies and employers, such as those selling direct to the consumer and those selling to trade. It is also found across different types of retail operation, including those who trade from traditional stores, those who are exclusively online, and those who operate through a variety of channels. During the buying and merchandising assistant apprenticeship, you’ll support new product selection and development and ensure that these new products are accurately added to the employer’s product portfolio in line with the supplier agreement. You’ll also be responsible for the testing and delivery of product samples. If you opt for the merchandising assistant role, you’ll collate, distribute and analyse sales and performance reports, identifying trends, trading patterns and highlighting anomalies. You’ll communicate and escalate findings appropriately, supported by a range of business solutions. You may also place supplier orders and maintain product availability across the business and for monitoring products to ensure timely delivery and availability to agreed locations.

Duration: 18 months

Relevant school subjects: Business studies

Entry requirements for the buying and merchandising assistant apprenticeship: Depend on employer

Achievement upon completion: Level 4 (Higher)—equivalent to a foundation degree

Potential salary upon completion: £22,000 per annum

Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk