What is the primary responsibility of a buyer in merchandising?

The primary responsibility of a buyer in merchandising is to select and purchase products for a retail business. This role is crucial because buyers play a vital part in determining what items will be available for sale in a store, directly impacting sales success and customer satisfaction. They analyze market trends, assess consumer demand, and negotiate with suppliers to acquire the right products at optimal prices.

Selection involves evaluating potential products based on various factors such as quality, price, and market trends, ensuring that the merchandise aligns with the company's brand and meets customer needs. Once selections are made, buyers negotiate purchasing terms to secure favorable deals for their business, subsequently managing inventory levels to ensure product availability without excess stock.

The other options—creating store layouts, managing vendor relationships exclusively, and conducting customer satisfaction surveys—are important functions in the overall retail operation but do not primarily define the buyer's central responsibility in merchandising. While buyers may interact with vendors and consider customer feedback, their main focus is on product selection and purchasing, which is critical for maintaining a relevant and profitable product assortment in retail environments.