National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011

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National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011
Introduction

6222 - Retail and wholesale buyers

Retail and wholesale buyers buy merchandise for resale by retail or wholesale establishments and are usually responsible for the merchandising operations of retail or wholesale establishments. Retail and wholesale buyers who are supervisors and those who are assistants are included in this unit group.

  • Illustrative example(s)

    • appliance buyer
    • assistant buyer
    • buyer - retail
    • buyer - wholesale
    • chief buyer
    • clothing buyer
    • food buyer
    • merchandiser
    • produce buyer
    • taster and buyer, beverages

    All examples

  • Exclusion(s)

    • Purchasing agents and officers (1225)

  • Main duties

    Retail and wholesale buyers perform some or all of the following duties:

    • Purchase merchandise for resale by retail or wholesale establishments
    • Review requirements of establishment and determine quantity and type of merchandise to purchase
    • Study market reports, trade periodicals and sales promotion materials and visit trade shows, showrooms, factories and product design events
    • Select the merchandise which best fits the establishment's requirements
    • Interview suppliers and negotiate prices, discounts, credit terms and transportation arrangements
    • Oversee distribution of merchandise to outlets and maintain adequate stock levels
    • Establish and maintain contact with suppliers
    • May supervise the work of other retail buyers.

    Retail and wholesale buyers may specialize in a particular merchandise line.

  • Employment requirements

    • Completion of secondary school is required.
    • A university degree or college diploma in business, marketing or a related program is usually required.
    • Previous work experience in retail or wholesale establishments is usually required.
    • Supervisors and senior buyers require experience in the occupation supervised or in a particular merchandise line.

  • Additional information

    • Retail and wholesale buyers may specialize through experience or product-related training courses.
    • Progression to management positions in retail trade, sales, marketing or advertising is possible with additional training or experience.
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