Retail Sales Work

There exists a vast distribution network between the producer and the consumers. The place of production is situated in one area whereas the consumption is spread over vast geographical areas. Hence, a distribution network is required to ensure the goods reach the consumers on right time and in right quantities. 'Retail Sales' is a part of this distribution channel, which includes buying goods from the wholesalers or producers and selling them directly to the consumers. The other two types of sales are Wholesalers Sales or Direct Sales

'Retail Sales' is a popular form of starting your business. One requires the basic resources of finance, premise, storage amenities, labor and strong network in order to start a business in retail sales. Once the goods are purchased, the businessman enjoys the ownership of the goods. He determines the type of retail store he wants to open, and the type of consumers he wishes to cater, depending upon the availability of resources. Retail work may be carried on small or large scale.

Types of Retail Sales Work

Retail selling refers to any sale that is made directly to the consumers. Hence, all the grocery stores and brand houses we see around are examples of retail outlets. The different types of retail sales include:

• General Stores - It refers to all stores that are nearby your residence and function as per the needs of the local public. They mainly provide basic grocery products but arrange for other types of goods too, if demanded by the customers.

• Supermarket - It refers to the stores that sell grocery goods and other everyday use items. Features such as big premise, stock of high quality goods, and wide variety of goods suiting different tastes and budgets make the store a supermarket.

• Malls - It refers to stores that sell a variety of goods such as grocery, clothes, shoes, cosmetics, electronics, stationary, etc., all under one roof. It boasts of features similar to a supermarket but with better facilities and more sophistication.

• Specialty Stores - It refers to retail outlets that specialize in goods of a particular type. For example a fashion house selling only ethnic wear or party wears or an electronic shop selling only air conditioners or washing machines.

• E - Commerce - It refers to online sale of goods. The merchandiser gives out details of goods for sale along with picture and price. The consumer views it online, makes the payment via internet or on delivery, and purchases the goods.

• Vending Machines - It includes setting up a machine that pops out the goods, when you insert coins of certain value into the machine. There is no requirement for a salesman.

• Factory Outlets - It refers to the outlets where merchandise is brought from the factory and directly sold to the customers. It includes no chain of distributors.

• Convenience Stores - It refers to stores that are found in outskirts, rural areas and near the highways. They stock up goods that have everyday use and are required in emergency or during travels. They may include a variety of goods such as grocery, hardware, etc.

Making a career in retail sales is a big responsibility. It includes gathering and managing resources effectively. Responsibilities begin from determining the type of store you wish to open, then proceeding to arranging goods, finalizing the store d�cor and training the staff members with sales functions to ensure the store operates successfully. It would be wise if you complete a course in sales and marketing or retailing, before starting up your business. As you are the owner, there are several decisions in your hand in addition to the lion's share in profits. However, being the owner you have to work for 7 days for more than 12 hours a day. Besides, traveling is a major function, as you need to coordinate with vendors, bankers and insurance agents for arranging facilities. Additionally, retail work falls prey to varying economic conditions. Hence, retail sales as a business must be pursued only after gaining the necessary qualifications and experience to ensure smooth operations of the business unit.

We hope these details will help you start your own business venture successfully.