Preparing a Seasonal Order Calendar
A seasonal calendar works backward from the date goods need to be on the sales floor, not merely the date of the event.
Practical Considerations
Allow separate time for inquiry, quotation review, any sample evaluation, order confirmation, transport, receiving and display preparation. Obtain the actual proposed dates from the supplier rather than applying a standard lead time to every item.
Suggested Procedure
- Record the first intended selling date.
- List each step and the person responsible.
- Identify the last acceptable arrival date.
Illustrative Example
For a gift display, the useful arrival date may be weeks before the occasion because staff need time to prepare fixtures and customers shop in advance. Write down the store's own dates instead of copying a generic calendar.
Points to Check
Include a decision date for late merchandise. An item arriving after its selling period can require a different storage or markdown plan.
Working Record
Use the seasonal purchasing calendar to put the relevant information in one place. You can complete it in your browser, save a text copy or print a blank form for use in the store. Entries are not submitted to NoveltyPlex.
Open the seasonal purchasing calendar »
Related Information
Examples are provided for planning purposes and are not quotations, promised results or terms of sale. Confirm the arrangements for each purchase with the parties involved.