Purchasing raw materials (fabric, trims, accessories) for garment production is a crucial function within a garment manufacturing company or a brand that outsources production. Let's analyze the roles:
- (a) Consumer: The end-user who buys the finished garment. Consumers do not purchase raw materials for mass production.
- (b) Merchandiser: In the garment industry, a merchandiser plays a key role in coordinating various activities from product development to shipment. This includes:
- Sourcing and purchasing raw materials (fabric, trims, accessories) according to specifications and budget.
- Liaising with suppliers.
- Costing.
- Planning and monitoring production schedules.
- Ensuring quality standards.
- Communicating with buyers/clients.
The task of purchasing raw materials is a core responsibility of a merchandiser (or a specialized sourcing/purchasing department that works closely with merchandisers). - (c) Retailer: A retailer buys finished garments from manufacturers or wholesalers and sells them to consumers. They do not typically purchase raw materials for garment production (unless they are a vertically integrated retailer that also manufactures).
- (d) Wholesaler: A wholesaler buys finished garments in bulk from manufacturers and sells them in smaller quantities to retailers. They also do not typically purchase raw materials for garment production.
Therefore, the task of purchasing raw materials used for garment production is most directly associated with the role of a
Merchandiser (or the merchandising/sourcing/purchasing department within a manufacturing or brand organization). \[ \boxed{\text{Merchandiser}} \]