The Export Merchandiser

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING

Section 2 -C

The Export Merchandiser

          In starting your career in the export industry, there is no better way to be able to learn the ropes of the trade than to be employed as an export merchandiser.

         An Export Merchandiser is someone who links the buyer from one country to a seller or supplier in another country.

Duties and Responsibilities of an Export Merchandiser

FUNCTIONS	ACTIVITIES
Buyer Sourcing, Handling and Assistance	Undertakes a market research and prepares for the buyer’s visit. Arranges for the buyer’s hotel accommodations, transportation, etc. Studies the buyer’s product preferences and specifications.
Supplier Sourcing, Identification and Evaluation	Visits factories or prospective suppliers to broaden supplier’s base Evaluates suppliers in terms of product, capacity, clientele, reliability, pricing, etc. Negotiates with vendors, if necessary, concerning product specifications, pricing, etc.
Negotiation	Matches the buyer’s specifications and the supplier’s capabilities and present these options to the buyers Initiates the counter sampling and alternative product sourcing to meet the buyer’s requirements Prepares guidelines and terms that will later on be applied to the negotiations and confirmation of orders with the buyers and suppliers Submits final quotations and samples for approval and confirmation Prepares a pro forma invoice for the buyers stating the specifications for the payments and shipping terms Prepares the P.O. to vendor upon the approval of the buyer Prepares the authorization to start production the moment the buyer gives his approval
Order Follow-Up	Prepares a timetable during pre-production and production stages Conducts plan visits to follow-up the status of the product/order Closely monitors the production process and sends progress reports to the buyer Establishes clear measures for quality control, and effects the same in inspecting all orders placed during production and post-production prior to loading Ensures on-time delivery of the goods to the buyer Negotiates with buyer in case of delay