Wholesale buying is slowing the industry down.
Not to point fingers but who keeps throwing their clothes in the ocean?
Once a private industry, wholesale buying has undergone a significant transformation, opening its doors to the masses. However, this shift towards accessibility has had unintended consequences, as it has contributed to the accelerated destruction of our planet. While the responsibility to keep stores stocked with the latest trends is emphasized, what often goes unmentioned is the role we play in the overproduction of apparel. Shockingly, it is estimated that a staggering 85% of all textiles end up in the dump each year (UNECE, 2018). Moreover, the pollution caused by the chemicals used in the production processes has an even greater adverse impact on our climate today.
In order for the fashion industry to truly embrace transparency, it is crucial that we acknowledge the significant climate impact of wholesale buying. This practice requires us to purchase goods in the largest quantities possible to meet potential sales expectations. Unfortunately, this has conditioned consumers to expect lower prices and compromised quality, contributing further to the cycle of overconsumption. If people were more informed about the production processes and the detrimental effects of their purchasing decisions, they might be inclined to reconsider their buying habits and adopt a more sustainable approach.
By encouraging consumers to slow down their shopping habits, we have the potential to effect positive change in fashion factories. By addressing labor issues, improving factory conditions, and streamlining delivery times, we could make a tangible impact on the bottom line of large fashion conglomerates. Although money currently holds the reins of the apparel industry, it is worth considering whether sacrificing some of the speed and convenience we have become accustomed to could pave the way for a more ethical and sustainable future.
Whose responsible for purchasing wholesale products?
As a fashion buyer, you will be responsible for selecting and purchasing clothing and accessories for a retail store or fashion brand, managing inventory, and building relationships with suppliers. The buyers responsibility is to purchase products for a particular brand to be sold to customers. Products are shipped from their factories to the assigned stores based on the estimated sales goals and other market factors.
Is wholesale buying open to the public?
In most cases, no. Wholesale buying is a B2B industry. Business buy products at no sales tax and in large quantities from the manufactures that sell it at production cost. Popular sites like Aliexpres, Alibaba and Amazon have allowed non-licensed business to buy products in bulk.
What skills do buyers need to have?
To become a fashion buyer, you need to have strong analytical and communication skills, an eye for fashion trends, excellent negotiation abilities, and a good understanding of the fashion industry.
What is the communication like between buyers and wholesalers?
Your relationships with suppliers and factories means a lot as a buyer. You will be responsible for shipping and delivery timelines, store assortments, KPI achievements and inventory management. If your company is also producing custom orders there will be project management communication between production factories.
What responsibilities do buyers have at larger fashion companies?
If you’re curious about the role at large companies or department stores, the job often requires communication between multiple buyers. In addition to working alongside a department dedicated to buying and managing the assortment for that category, there are various other responsibilities that a buyer may take on. These can include conducting market research to identify current and upcoming trends, negotiating with vendors to secure the best prices and terms, and analyzing sales data to make informed purchasing decisions. For example, at Bloomingdales, an Intimates buyer may only focus on selecting and curating a range of lingerie and sleepwear, the Men's shoe buyer and the Accessories buyer would each work to ensure a cohesive and well-rounded product offering across their category. This interconnectedness within the buying team allows for a comprehensive and strategic approach in meeting customer demands and driving sales.