Sourcing is considered one of the most important jobs for a merchandiser in the garment industry because it plays a critical role in the success of a company’s product line. The responsibilities of a merchandiser include selecting the right suppliers, negotiating prices and delivery schedules, and ensuring that the products are produced and delivered on time and meet quality standards. Sourcing is particularly important because it directly affects the cost and quality of the products, which in turn affects the company’s reputation, customer satisfaction, and profitability.
Here are some specific reasons why sourcing is considered the most important job for a merchandiser:
- Cost control: A merchandiser is responsible for controlling the cost of the products and ensuring that the products are produced at the most competitive prices. Sourcing is a key factor in controlling costs, as the choice of suppliers and materials can have a significant impact on the final cost of the product.
- Quality assurance: A merchandiser is responsible for ensuring that the products meet the required quality standards. Sourcing is critical in this regard, as the choice of suppliers and materials directly affects the quality of the final product.
- Time management: A merchandiser is responsible for ensuring that the products are produced and delivered on time. Sourcing is crucial in this regard, as the choice of suppliers and their ability to deliver on time can have a major impact on the delivery schedule.
- Risk management: A merchandiser is responsible for managing the risks associated with sourcing, such as supplier reliability, currency fluctuations, and political stability in the source country. Sourcing is critical in this regard, as the choice of suppliers and materials can have a significant impact on the company’s risk exposure.
- Competitive advantage: A merchandiser is responsible for developing and maintaining a competitive advantage for the company. Sourcing is critical in this regard, as the choice of suppliers and materials can have a major impact on the competitiveness of the products. A merchandiser with strong sourcing skills can find innovative and unique materials and technologies to differentiate the company’s products from the competition.
- Supply chain management: A merchandiser is responsible for managing the supply chain, from sourcing to delivery. Sourcing is critical in this regard, as the choice of suppliers can have a major impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain. A merchandiser with strong sourcing skills can develop strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure the timely delivery of materials.
- Market intelligence: A merchandiser is responsible for staying up-to-date with the latest market trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. Sourcing is critical in this regard, as the choice of suppliers and materials can have a major impact on the company’s ability to respond to changing market conditions. A merchandiser with strong sourcing skills can identify new and innovative materials and technologies to meet the evolving needs of the market.
In conclusion, sourcing is the backbone of a successful merchandiser’s job, and a key factor in the success of the company. A merchandiser with strong sourcing skills can control costs, ensure quality, manage time, mitigate risks, develop a competitive advantage, manage the supply chain, and stay up-to-date with market trends and technological advancements.
Md.Mahbub-Ul Islam
RMG Consultant & Reseacher
