Communication and negotiation skills will be stressed. Recommended as alternative to SPAN 142 for business majors. Cross listed with Spanish and Italian, SPAN 306. Problems involved in the operation of a retail organization, and the preparation for the opening of such a business is studied. The preparation of the merchandise for resale, the use of computers, uniform product codes, inventory control are primary subject areas covered.
Subject matter includes current developments, challenges and dangers in retailing.
The changes and challenges to shopping malls, the growth and effect of category killers and the consolidation of retail ownership are important areas discussed. Retailer executives visit classroom to contribute to the class work. Other areas covered are the functions of the merchandise division and the job challenges today. Micro-retailing, the buying and merchandise problems of today's stores are covered. Physical handling, comparison shopping, planning the buyer's budget and the six-month buying plans are also important topics.