ABSTRACT
This chapter will discuss what the future may be for fashion buying and merchandising. There are many challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for buyers and merchandisers, and whilst it is impossible to know exactly what is in store, there are certain trends and directions that are rising and will only grow in significance over the next decade or so. Selling product ranges globally stretches and challenges the skillset of the buying and merchandising teams, as they need to ensure that the products ranges are culturally appropriate. Although retailing internationally exposes brands and products to new markets and consumers, this also means the buying and merchandising teams need to be aware of logistical, legal, and cultural challenges on top of the ones in their current and original markets. Consumers are demanding greater levels of personalisation in their consumption experience, resulting in companies having to re-assess their business models in order to become more responsive to consumer needs and demands.
