Buyers procure the products and services, including farm products or nondurable goods, and relevant services that their organizations intend to either use or resell. As seekers of the best deal for their organization, a buyer searches for the highest quality goods and services at the lowest possible cost to the company. Buyers also make sure to examine trends, sales records, and inventory levels of current stock. They also examine foreign and domestic suppliers and keep up to date with potential changes that may affect the supply and demand for products and materials.
Buyers use many resources to discover all potential suppliers. This includes attending meetings, trade shows, and conferences to learn about new industry trends and to establish contact with potential suppliers. They will often interview a prospective supplier and visit their plant or distribution center to assess their capabilities and potential to serve the company’s needs. Buyers also stay in constant contact with suppliers to ensure the desired goods or services arrive on time, in the correct amount, and at the expected quality. Buyers have a bachelor’s degree in retail merchandising and management.