What is the primary function of a merchandise planner?

The primary function of a merchandise planner is to optimize profitability through product strategies. This role involves analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and making decisions regarding the types and quantities of products to be purchased and stocked. The merchandise planner plays a crucial part in ensuring that the right products are available at the right time and place, which directly impacts a retailer's ability to meet customer demand and maximize profits.

In this capacity, they utilize various strategies such as assortment planning, pricing strategies, and inventory management to align the product offerings with market trends and consumer preferences. This optimization process not only aids in maintaining adequate stock levels but also enhances the overall shopping experience, as it helps to ensure that customers find the products they want when they visit the store or shop online.

The other roles listed, such as managing employee schedules, creating store layouts, and overseeing customer service training, while important, do not primarily focus on the financial aspects of product strategy and profitability optimization associated with a merchandise planner's responsibilities. These functions support the overall operation of a retail environment but do not directly influence product selection and profitability as the merchandise planner does.