S7 E9: Why we fell in love with retail buying - and why so many are leaving

In this episode, Kate and Lyns reflect on seven seasons of Buying and Beyond and take on one of the most pressing - and personal - topics in retail today: why so many buyers are leaving the industry they once loved.

With no guest this week, the conversation is honest and unfiltered. They explore the realities facing buying teams today, from shrinking budgets and growing workloads to the erosion of creativity and the frustration caused by unclear or constantly shifting brand strategies. The role of the buyer, once central and celebrated, is increasingly under pressure - and often misunderstood.

Kate and Lyns look back on their own buying journeys, sharing stories from very different chapters of their careers - working under duvets to hit deadlines, travelling to Hong Kong, buying everything from jewellery and seasonal novelties to barbecues and wine. These reflections highlight just how much the buying role has changed over the years, and what’s been lost along the way.

They discuss how the function has evolved over the past decade, including the growing influence of AI and automation in buying and merchandising. While technology can bring efficiencies, they question whether the industry is at risk of stripping out the very creativity, instinct, and inspiration that make great buying possible.

Despite the challenges, the episode is ultimately hopeful. Kate and Lindsay share why they remain deeply committed to supporting the buying community - through networking events, mentorship, and creating spaces where buyers can connect, learn, and feel less alone. They argue that while the role of the buyer is transforming, the human judgement at the heart of buying cannot be replaced.

This episode is a rallying call for retailers to recognise the true value of buying, protect the creativity that fuels it, and invest in the people who quietly drive commercial success.

Three Key Takeaways

1) Buying is one of the most powerful levers in retail.

 When buying is strong, businesses thrive. When it’s weak, no amount of marketing or branding can fix it. Buyers make the core decisions that drive profit, yet the role is often undervalued and under-resourced.

2) Creativity must be protected, even as efficiency increases.

 AI and technology can support admin and process, but creativity, inspiration, and gut instinct remain essential. Cutting travel, inspiration, and thinking time risks eroding the very foundations of great ranges.

3) Community and connection are critical.

 Buyers are often conditioned to work in silos, but breaking down barriers through networking, mentorship, and shared experiences is key to tackling burnout, reducing isolation, and helping the industry move forward together.