Favorite Parts Of Working In The Retail Industry As A Buyer At Ross
Gabby, a Ross Buyer, thrives on the dynamic nature of the retail industry, citing how "the customer is always changing," influenced by events like COVID-19, economic shifts (stimulus checks), weather patterns, and pop culture trends (e.g., the Barbie movie). This constant evolution necessitates adapting product assortments to reflect these fluctuating consumer behaviors and preferences.
Market Research, Trend Analysis, Consumer Behavior, Sales Forecasting, Retail
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Gabby DAnnunzio
Buyer
Ross
University of Arizona
None
Business & Related
Apparel, Beauty, Retail & Fashion
Business Strategy
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. The fast-paced and ever-changing nature of consumer demands keeps the work exciting and requires constant adaptation.
2. External factors like economic shifts (stimulus checks), weather events, and pop culture trends significantly influence sales and purchasing behaviors, making the role dynamic.
3. The industry requires analyzing and responding to micro and macro trends, from shifts in skincare routines to the impact of major movies and award shows on consumer spending, demanding strong analytical skills and business acumen.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your industry?
What I love most about my industry is how much the customer is always changing. This applies from a broad level, like how customer behavior shifted during COVID, to more specific trends that come and go.
During the pandemic, everyone was buying home decor, and people were doing eight-step skincare routines because there was nothing else to do. Lipstick and lip gloss sales declined because people were wearing face masks. Now that restrictions are lifting, makeup sales are increasing again, and people are simplifying their skincare routines.
We have to adjust our product assortment based on these ever-changing consumer trends. We also consider external factors like stimulus checks, which can increase spending. We've observed this in the past when stimulus money was distributed.
Natural events also affect sales. Big snowstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes can cause dips in sales. When we anticipate a major hurricane, we plan for a slight dip and adjust our inventory accordingly.
On the trends side, charcoal face masks used to be very popular, as were masks in jars. Now, sheet masks are the big thing. Other specific trends, like "the new thing," have also emerged.
Pop culture has a significant effect too. After events like the VMAs or any major award show, we see recaps that influence what's popular. Big movies, like "Top Gun" or the "Barbie" movie, also impact consumer patterns.
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