Page 37 - DMGT554_RETAIL_BUYING

Retail Buying

Notes
Figure 2.3: Organization of a Small Independent Store

Owner

Manager

Assistant Manager

Sales Personnel

Source: http://wps.pearsoncustom.com/wps/media/objects/5808/5947551/MCH150_Ch02.pdf

A typical small independent retailer that specializes in fashion apparel and has only one unit is
often organized as shown in the chart above.

Task Analyze the use of single-unit independent stores.

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:

14. ........................... stores are speciality stores that feature just one merchandise classification.
15. A .......................... is in charge during the owner’s absence.



Case Study Problem Faced in Expansion in Retail

n 1980, the Curtis family opened a retail operation that specialized in apparel for the
family, fashion accessories, and some merchandise for the home. The first two categories
Iaccounted for approximately 80 percent of the merchandise assortment; the last, which
featured bedding, dinnerware, flatware, glassware, and some gift items, accounted for the
rest.
As the years passed, the Curtises expanded their operation not only in terms of space that
they acquired when adjoining stores abandoned their operations, but also in merchandise
offerings. While apparel had always been the mainstay of the business, the shoe, jewelry,
and handbag departments became more important, as did the products for the home.
What began as a small company with the Curtis family at the head, with Jim and Marge
Curtis sharing most of the responsibilities, steadily grew into a major retail player in its
Mid-west, downtown location. As business grew, the Curtises could not handle all of the
buying and merchandising chores, and they had to employ others to perform some of the
purchasing.

At first one buyer was responsible for home furnishings, while another handled the
accessories areas. As these departments grew, the buying duties were again expanded to
Contd...

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