This episode was recorded LIVE at Top Drawer in September 2025. Top Drawer is the UK's leading design-led trade show for buyers and retailers to discover, connect, and purchase lifestyle products across sectors like Home, Gift, Fashion, and Stationery. It's held twice yearly at Kensington Olympia, London.

Join us, Kate & Lyns, for a chat with Rosie, Head of Range & Ecommerce at NOTHS. Rosie has worked in a variety of different retail environments, from slow carefully crafted collections to fast fashion trading floors, the charity sector and marketplace buying. We will be discussing Rosie's experience working as a retail buyer for large UK retailers, such as, Principles, Debenhams, Oasis, Jaeger, River Island, BBC Children in Need, Superdrug and NOTHS.

Rosie, like us, is an expert in product development and trading strategies. She knows exactly how to drive sales, curate compelling product ranges and pivot at the most testing of times. She has spent the past 8 years sharing her knowledge with independent brands at NOTHS. Rosie knows everything there is to know about sourcing, coaching and scaling small product based businesses. With 70% of all sales expected to be on marketplaces by 2030, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a retail business or a retail buyer, we can guarantee you’ll learn something new.

Key takeaways

• Why it’s vital to understand a retailer’s core values… each will be unique in their behaviour, goals and expectations - and buyers will shape their strategy around that
• What it’s really like to be a buyer today… the highs and lows, the challenges they face day to day, and the impact this has on decision making and bringing on new suppliers
• How brands can focus their efforts to capture a retailer’s attention…practical advice on building strong relationships with buyers and customers to drive retail growth

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In this episode of Buying and Beyond, we sit down with Emma Robinson, a consultant wine buyer whose career is as rich and layered as the wines she sources. From studying science to stepping into the world of fine wines, Emma has carved out a unique path, working across yacht provisioning, supermarket collaborations, and specialist training.

Emma shares what it really takes to succeed in wine buying, from the value of qualifications like WSET and Master of Wine, to the deep product knowledge and relationships required to source the right bottles for yachts, restaurants, and retail shelves. Along the way, we explore the differences between on-trade and off-trade sales, the role of climate and production in shaping wine quality, and the constant balancing act of price versus provenance.

We also talk about the fun side of the job: spotting emerging trends like orange wine, chilled reds, and Georgian wines; traveling the world to meet producers; and the occasional challenges (and perks!) of finding rare bottles under pressure. Emma reflects on her favourite regions, shares stories from the road, and offers practical tips. This is a great listen if you’re an aspiring buyer, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for the perfect winter bottle.

With advice on supporting English vineyards, stretching your wine budget, and discovering something new every time you pour a glass, this episode offers a fascinating peek into a career built on both passion and precision.

Key Takeaways

1. Knowledge is power - building a career in wine buying requires specialist training and hands-on experience to earn credibility and trust.
2. Tradition meets innovation - global trends, climate shifts, and evolving tastes are constantly reshaping the wine industry.
3. There’s always more to discover - from new regions and grape varieties to unexpected career paths- there’s always something new to discover

Connect with Emma: If you’re interested in a career in wine buying or want to learn more, Emma encourages you to reach out and explore wine courses or volunteer during harvest season.

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In this week’s episode, we sit down for a lively catch-up - no guest, just an honest, in-depth chat about the trends, trade shows, and inspirations shaping fashion and retail right now.

We kick things off with the joys of autumn fashion: cozy knits, rich burgundy tones, suede textures, and the art of layering. From there, we dive into the rise of head-to-toe colour drenching, playful bold combos, and the season’s must-haves like bomber jackets, kitten-heel boots, and the enduring love for athleisure and wide-leg styles.

The conversation takes us through highlights from Copenhagen, New York, London, and Milan Fashion Weeks - street style moments, statement accessories, and even the infamous “rat bag.” We also explore how K-Pop and nostalgia are shaping trends, from sparkly bra tops to platform trainers.

Shifting gears, we reflect on the London Design Festival, where circularity, upcycling, and comfort-driven interiors are setting the tone for the future of home design. Trade shows also get their moment, as we discuss their ongoing evolution and the unique value of in-person connections, discovering fresh talent, and celebrating sustainable brands.

And yes it may only just be autumn, but Christmas is already creeping in. Expect bows, tactile textures, and quirky ornaments to take over festive displays this season. Plus, a little teaser for our future episode, where we’ll dive into all things festive - including a surprising new wave of hot chocolate trends.

✨ 3 Takeaways

1. Fashion is embracing both bold and cozy - from head-to-toe colour drenching to autumnal layering, comfort and confidence walk hand in hand this season.
2. Trade shows and design festivals remain vital - they’re evolving spaces that spotlight sustainability, new talent, and the irreplaceable power of face-to-face connections.
3. Nostalgia and playfulness are shaping the future - whether in K-Pop-inspired styles, quirky Christmas ornaments, or luxury upcycling, consumers are seeking joy and storytelling in what they buy.

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This week, we dive into the latest movements and shake-ups in the retail world, with a special focus on leadership changes, store strategies, and sustainability efforts.

In this episode:

• Leadership Changes at M&S:
  We discuss the recent appointments and departures at Marks & Spencer, including the hiring of a new Transformation Director and the exit of their CTO after a challenging year marked by a major cyber attack.
• Amazon Fresh Store Closures:
  A look at Amazon’s decision to close or convert its Fresh stores to Whole Foods Markets, and what this means for the future of brick-and-mortar retail.
• Sustainability Spotlight:
  Mars’ European factories are now running on 100% renewable energy, and we break down what GEO certificates mean for tracking green energy use.
• Grocery Prices:
  Aldi’s £300 million investment in price cuts and how this is impacting the wider supermarket landscape, including price matching strategies from competitors like Tesco.
• Fashion & Influencer Brands:
  The launch of a new inclusive athleisure brand, REASN, and a discussion on the importance of sustainable practices in influencer-led fashion.
• Greenwashing & Pricing:
  A candid conversation about the prevalence of greenwashing in the industry and the need for honest pricing and truly sustainable products.

Don’t miss:

• Our upcoming episodes featuring experts in wine buying and hard goods
• A look ahead to next week’s deep dive into fashion weeks and trade shows

Thanks for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share with your friends. Have a great week!

Support the show

If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :)
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In this episode of Buying and Beyond, we sit down with Louis Clark, Head of Strategic Program Development at the Fashion Retail Academy (FRA) and the Education for Industry Group. Louis takes us inside the innovative ways FRA is transforming work-based learning for the retail sector. From apprenticeships and bespoke programs to short courses across fashion, beauty, and beyond, FRA is bridging the gap between education and industry.

We explore why industry-specific training matters, and how FRA tailors government funded programs to meet real-world retail needs via the apprenticeship scheme.

The benefits of hiring trainers directly from the industry, ensuring students gain practical, up-to-date knowledge. He shares how the Academy hires trainers directly from industry, bringing first-hand experience into the classroom so learning remains practical, current, and directly applicable. We discuss how apprenticeships and short courses support both newcomers and experienced professionals looking to upskill, transition, or reignite their careers.

The next exciting chapter for the FRA is its expansion into the beauty sector, we take a look at the unique challenges and opportunities for training in this fast-growing industry. Beyond education, Louis emphasizes the power of building community and collaboration through networking events, peer learning, and ongoing professional support.

We also dive into practical tips for individuals and brands on accessing apprenticeships, maximizing learning & development budgets, and investing in people for long-term success.

You don't want to miss our highlights from FRA’s recent “Prepare for Peak” networking event, we chat about what happened on the night and how much we enjoyed seeing our community growing.

👉 Connect with Louis Clark on [LinkedIn] or visit the [Fashion Retail Academy website] for details on programs, apprenticeships, and upcoming events.

🎙️ Top 3 Takeaways

• Industry-first approach: Real-world expertise is critical — FRA ensures training stays relevant by bringing in educators directly from the retail and beauty sectors.
  
  
• Collaboration builds resilience: Networking, peer learning, and community events empower professionals and businesses to adapt and thrive in a competitive retail landscape.
  
  
• Invest in your team: Prioritizing people through training and development is the most powerful way to drive long-term business success.
  
  Sponsors:
  Boho Betty: www.boho-betty.co.uk
  Discount code: BYB10 (offer ends 3rd October)
  Wholesale site: www.boho-betty-wholesale.myshopify.com
  
  For buying support email us at hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk

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In this episode of Retail Reflections, your hosts dive into the latest happenings in the world of fashion and retail for the week ending September 19th, 2025. Despite a few real-life interruptions (tree surgeons and lingering colds!), the conversation is packed with insights and lively discussion.

Highlights include:

• A recap of New York and London Fashion Weeks, with standout moments from Valentino’s Studio 54 revival, Nicholas Arbor’s sculptural designs, and Colleen Allen’s cheeky lace skirt.
• The rise of playful, practical fashion—think chic raincoats, bold colors, and the return of blue eyeshadow and colored mascara.
• The resurgence of statement accessories, including chunky belts and pendant-style mini bags.
• Reflections on the evolving accessibility of fashion information, with more paywalls and less open coverage.
• Exciting new store openings: Laura Ashley’s flagship at Lakeside, Tyler’s expansion to Westfield, and Boo Avenue’s new Manchester location.
• The importance of experience-driven retail and the mood-boosting power of in-person shopping.
• Industry news: Moon Pig’s revenue growth, Claire’s potential acquisition, and the challenges facing UK retail, including economic pressures and the impact of AI.
• A discussion on the need for creative representation in Parliament and support for young talent in the fashion industry.

Tune in for a blend of trend analysis, retail news, and thoughtful commentary on the future of shopping and fashion careers.

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Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk

If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you!

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In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Thompson, an experienced Product Category Manager at Jewsons, who has built an impressive career spanning fashion, sports retail, appliances, and now building products. Rebecca’s journey is a fascinating example of how skills in buying and category management can transfer across industries - even from trend-led fashion accessories to long-lifecycle hard goods like composite decking, cladding, and fencing.

Rebecca reflects on her early years working with big names like New Look and Sports Direct, where the buying process was fast-paced, heavily trend-driven, and all about quick reactions.

At Eurocell, she owned outdoor living categories in a business that evolved from a manufacturer into both a retail and trade powerhouse. She talks us through the rapid growth the company has experienced - especially during the COVID-19 pandemic - and the importance of adapting quickly to changing customer journeys and the rise of e-commerce.

We also explore how her role demands deep product knowledge and ongoing technical training. Rebecca emphasizes that in hard goods, credibility comes not just from sales strategy, but from being able to advise customers with confidence. Trade shows and industry events play a big role here, offering both inspiration and networking opportunities.

A particularly engaging part of our conversation focuses on gender dynamics in the retail and trade industries. Rebecca shares her perspective on the increasing visibility and influence of women in spaces that have traditionally been male-dominated, noting, “Women are increasingly shaping the customer journey in trade and DIY sectors.” She believes this shift is reshaping how businesses think about service, communication, and product ranges.

Sustainability is another recurring theme. Rebecca highlights how the industry is moving toward more thoughtful decision-making. “Sustainability and quality are becoming more important in both fashion and hard goods,” she explains, pointing out that buyers now have to consider not just trends but also the long-term impact and environmental footprint of their categories.

Whether you’re in fashion, DIY, or any other sector, Rebecca’s story demonstrates that every product category has its own challenges and excitement - and that embracing change, focusing on customers, and building transferable skills are the keys to a lasting career in buying and category management.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Career skills in buying and category management are highly transferable across industries, from trend-led fashion to long-lifecycle hard goods.
2. Building customer trust—especially in high-value purchases—requires deep product knowledge, adaptability, and clear communication.
3. Sustainability, diversity, and changing customer journeys are reshaping both fashion and hard goods, making these areas more exciting than ever.

Sponsors:
Boho Betty: www.boho-betty.co.uk
Discount code: BYB10 (offer ends 3rd October)
Wholesale site: www.boho-betty-wholesale.myshopify.com
For buying support email us at hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk

Support the show

If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :)
- and if you already have, thank you!

Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram

Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk

Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk

If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you!

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We may be a little croaky this week (autumn bugs have caught us!), but there’s far too much happening in retail to skip an episode. So, grab a cuppa and join us for a whistle-stop tour of the latest industry moves, headlines, and a few surprises.

This week, we discuss:

• 📺 Hobbycraft TV – The arts and crafts giant launches its own TV channel, available on Freeview, YouTube, and online. What does this mean for digital-first shopping and hobby inspiration?
• 🛍️ Fenwick’s first loyalty programme – The iconic department store finally rolls out a rewards scheme. Why now?
• 👞 Clarks’ upcoming digital marketplace – A bold step for the heritage footwear brand as they partner with quality names like Hunter. Can they capture more family spend and stay relevant in a crowded market?
• 👗 River Island x Olivia Attwood – A bold, unapologetic new collaboration. Will it help reshape the brand during restructuring, or is it just another influencer collection?
• 🏬 Business rates and retail’s future – The BRC warns that hundreds of large format stores could be at risk. We unpack what this means for supermarkets, pricing, and jobs.
• 🎄 Turkeys on TikTok Shop – Yes, really. Would you trust your Christmas dinner to TikTok?

Despite scratchy voices, we dig into the shifts shaping retail today, from loyalty schemes and marketplaces to influencer collabs and government pressures.

🔔 Subscribe to Retail Revealed to stay ahead of what’s happening in retail every week.

Support the show

If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :)
- and if you already have, thank you!

Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram

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Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk

If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support