Explain the elements of a merchandising plan.

Explanation should include

  • past and anticipated sales
  • beginning-of-month inventory
  • reductions
  • purchases. 

Process/Skill Questions:

  • Why do buyers plan six months at a time rather than yearly?
  • What adjustments can be made in the buying plan as the season progresses?
  • How do sales, inventory, reductions, and purchasing affect future merchandising planning?
  • How do holiday/seasonal offerings affect the merchandising plan?
  • How can retailers use technologies to help develop and update their merchandising plans?