The Retail Buyer is responsible for planning and managing the procurement of grocery products for resale at Apna Store. The position focuses on supplier sourcing, purchasing negotiations, product selection and inventory planning to ensure the store maintains a diverse and culturally relevant product range.

The position also supports the store’s growth strategy by expanding supplier networks and improving procurement processes as the business scales.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Determining the type, range and quantity of grocery products to be purchased based on customer demand, sales data and market trends within the multicultural community served by Apna Store.
  • Identifying and sourcing grocery products from suppliers in India and from New Zealand-based wholesalers and distributors specialising in Indian and Asian grocery products.
  • Negotiating purchasing prices, supply arrangements and delivery schedules with suppliers and distributors to ensure reliable product availability and competitive pricing.
  • Evaluating product quality, packaging and compliance with New Zealand food safety and import requirements before purchasing goods for retail sale.
  • Monitoring stock levels and analysing sales trends to ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained, and popular products remain available to customers.
  • Researching new products and suppliers to expand the store’s range of Indian, Asian and international grocery items in response to changing consumer preferences.
  • Coordinating with suppliers and distributors to ensure timely delivery of products and continuity of supply for key grocery items.
  • Maintaining purchasing records, supplier information and procurement documentation to support effective stock planning and purchasing decisions.
  • Working in coordination with the Store Manager to align purchasing decisions with store sales performance, customer demand and overall business strategy.
  • Engage with local businesses (such as Indian restaurants, small supermarkets and takeaway outlets) to develop wholesale opportunities and increase store revenue.
  • Monitor storage capacity, manage stock rotation, check expiry dates and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Evaluate purchasing outcomes and implement improvements in procurement strategies and supplier relationships.

 

Skills Required:

  • ·       At least 2-3 years of relevant work experience required, such as in retail, business management, inventory management or similar (if you don’t have a relevant qualification)

·       A qualification in the field of business, administration, commerce, economics, Supply chain/logistics, etc., is required (if you don’t have relevant work experience)

·       You must be available late at night as well to liaise with Indian suppliers due to the time zone difference

·       Must be available on weekends, public holidays if required

·       Strong knowledge of Indian, Asian or international grocery products and consumer demand trends is preferred

·       Good communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage with external businesses for revenue development.

·       Ability to work collaboratively with management and contribute to business growth strategies.

·       Basic computer proficiency (inventory systems, spreadsheets, procurement records).

 

 

Other Details:

·       Min 30 to max 50 hours per week

·    

    Hours between 11 am to 8 pm, depending on the supplier’s availability, with 1-2 days off

Employer Questions

Your application will include the following question(s):

  • How many years of experience do you have in Retail buying?
  • Are you able to work well in different time zones?
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