FMCG Sales Merchandiser at Buildmart Limited Tanzania

The job purpose of a Merchandiser for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) is to maximize sales and profitability by ensuring products are visually appealing, readily available, and strategically placed in retail environments. This involves a range of activities aimed at influencing consumer purchasing decisions at the point of sale.

Key responsibilities of an FMCG Merchandiser : 

• Planning and Development – Planning and developing merchandising strategies.
• Ensuring product availability: Making certain the right products are stocked in the right quantities at the right time. This includes monitoring inventory levels and working with clients and store personnel to prevent stockouts.
• Creating impactful displays: Developing and implementing attractive and effective product displays that capture consumer attention and drive sales. This involves understanding visual merchandising principles and utilizing planograms.
• Implementing promotions: Executing promotional activities, price changes, and markdowns to stimulate sales and clear excess stock.
• Analyzing sales data and trends: Monitoring sales figures, consumer reactions, and market trends to identify opportunities for improvement and make informed decisions about product placement and promotions.
• Maintaining store relationships: Collaborating with store managers and staff to ensure merchandising standards are met and to build strong working relationships.
• Monitoring competitor activities: Keeping track of competitors’ merchandising strategies, pricing, and promotions.
• Forecasting – Forecasting sales and managing Budgets
• Vital Role – Merchandisers in this industry play a vital role in making sure their company’s products stand out on the shelves and are easily accessible to consumer

Essential skills for an FMCG Merchandiser:

• Analytical skills: To interpret sales data and market trends.
• Communication skills: To effectively interact with various stakeholders.
• Organizational skills: To manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Creativity: To develop visually appealing displays.
• Attention to detail: To ensure accuracy in pricing and product placement.
• Negotiation skills: When working with suppliers and sometimes retailers.
• Problem-solving skills: To address issues related to stock, displays, etc.
• Knowledge of visual merchandising principles.
• Commercial awareness: Understanding what drives sales in the retail environment.