Top 10 Merchandise Buyer Certifications

Certifications are important for a merchandise buyer in the job market because they demonstrate the buyer’s level of expertise and experience. They can also be used to show potential employers that the buyer is knowledgeable about current trends and practices in the industry. Certifications provide evidence that the buyer has taken time to learn about their profession, and it helps employers determine if the candidate is adequately qualified for the position. Additionally, certifications may give buyers access to exclusive job postings or career opportunities. Ultimately, certifications can help buyers stand out from other applicants and secure job offers with competitive salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Merchandise Buyers and explain how they can help enhance a merchandise buyer's career.

What are Merchandise Buyer Certifications?

Merchandise buyer certification is a professional designation that demonstrates knowledge and expertise in the field of buying merchandise for retail stores. It is awarded by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and provides proof to employers that a person has mastered the skills necessary to be successful in this role.

The certification program includes an extensive curriculum covering topics such as: product research and analysis, pricing strategies, merchandising principles, inventory control methods, sales forecasting, customer service practices, product selection and display techniques, vendor relationships, and more. Through this program, buyers learn how to identify trends in the market and develop strategies to optimize their purchasing decisions. This can lead to significant cost savings for businesses.

By earning their merchandise buyer certification, professionals demonstrate their commitment to industry best practices. This can help them stand out from other applicants when seeking employment or promotions within their company. Additionally, it can provide them with access to exclusive networking events and job opportunities. Ultimately, obtaining this certification can help open doors for those hoping to advance their career in the retail industry.

Pro Tip: When considering a merchandise buyer certification, make sure to research the organization offering the certification. Verify that their credentials are valid and that they meet the industry standards for quality and reliability. Additionally, check to see if the program offers continuing education courses or other resources to keep you up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry.

Related: What does a Merchandise Buyer do?

Top 10 Merchandise Buyer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Merchandise Buyers today.

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of supply management professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a non-profit organization that provides educational resources, training, and certifications to supply chain professionals.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional, and Executive. Each level requires applicants to pass an exam and meet certain criteria related to education and experience. The Foundation level requires applicants to have at least two years of relevant work experience or a degree in supply chain management or a related field. The Professional level requires applicants to have five years of relevant work experience or a degree in supply chain management or a related field. The Executive level requires applicants to have ten years of relevant work experience or a degree in supply chain management or a related field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CPSM program depending on the applicant’s prior knowledge and experience with supply chain management. To get started, applicants must first register for the ISM’s online learning portal where they can access study materials and practice tests for each level of the CPSM program. After completing their studies, applicants must then take the corresponding exam for their desired level of certification.

The cost of the CPSM program varies depending on which level you are applying for as well as whether you are an ISM member or not. For non-members, the cost ranges from $425-$875 per exam depending on which level you are taking; members receive discounted rates ranging from $325-$675 per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or enrolling in preparation courses offered by ISM.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of purchasing and supply management. The CPM designation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques associated with purchasing and supply management.

The CPM program requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as financial analysis, contract negotiation, and supplier relations. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of purchasing processes and procedures through a work experience portfolio. To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in the field of purchasing or supply chain management.

The CPM exam typically takes about four hours to complete and can be taken either online or at an ISM testing center. The cost for the exam varies depending on whether you take it online or in person but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

3. Certified Professional Purchasing Consultant (CPPC)

Certified Professional Purchasing Consultant (CPPC) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPPC certification is designed to provide professional recognition to those who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of purchasing and supply management.

The CPPC certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as procurement and contract management, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, cost analysis and negotiation techniques. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of relevant work experience in purchasing or supply chain management.

The exam can be taken online or at one of ISM's testing centers located throughout the United States. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

The cost of the CPPC certification is $395 USD for ISM members, and $495 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials, the exam fee, and a one-year membership in ISM.

4. Global Sourcing Professional (GSP)

Global Sourcing Professional (GSP) is a certification program offered by the Global Sourcing Council (GSC) that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated expertise in global sourcing and procurement. The GSP program is designed to provide recognition of individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of global sourcing, procurement, supply chain management, and related disciplines.

The GSP certification process takes approximately 4-6 weeks to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application form and supporting documents such as their resume and references. Once the application is accepted, applicants must then take an online assessment that covers topics such as global sourcing principles and practices, project management techniques, and risk management strategies. Upon successful completion of the assessment, applicants will be awarded the GSP designation.

The cost for obtaining the GSP certification varies depending on the country of residence but typically ranges from $250-$500 USD.

5. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program designed by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is the most widely recognized and respected supply chain certification program in the world. The CSCP designation recognizes professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices and principles, including strategic design, implementation, compliance, and improvement of global supply chain activities.

It typically takes about 6-9 months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, one must first register for the exam with ASCM and then complete an online course or attend a classroom training session. After completing the course, one must take the three-hour long CSCP exam which consists of multiple choice questions.

The cost to get certified varies depending on whether you are taking an online or in-person course. The online course costs $1,695 USD while attending a classroom training session costs $2,195 USD. Additionally, there is a $125 USD fee for taking the exam.

6. Certified Purchasing and Materials Manager (CPMM)

Certified Purchasing and Materials Manager (CPMM) is a certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPMM certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge in purchasing and materials management.

To become certified, you must have at least five years of experience in purchasing and/or materials management, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, contract negotiation, inventory control, supplier selection, and more.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any ISM-approved testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$700. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CPMM certification within two weeks.

7. Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Certification (SSPC)

The Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Certification (SSPC) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage the strategic sourcing and procurement process. The SSPC is designed to help professionals in the field of procurement, supply chain, and operations management develop their expertise in managing the sourcing process from start to finish.

The program consists of three levels: Certified Professional (CP), Advanced Professional (AP), and Master Professional (MP). Each level requires a different amount of time for completion, ranging from one day for CP to eight days for MP. The courses are offered both online and in-person at various locations around the world.

To become certified, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with supporting documents such as a resume, references, transcripts, etc. Once all of the requirements have been met, applicants can then take an online or in-person exam to demonstrate their knowledge of the material covered in the coursework.

The cost of obtaining the SSPC certification varies depending on which level you are applying for. Generally speaking, CP costs $495 USD; AP costs $895 USD; and MP costs $1,495 USD.

8. International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional (IPSCMP)

International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional (IPSCMP) is a professional certification offered by the International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of purchasing and supply chain management.

The IPSCMP certification requires passing an online exam that covers topics such as procurement, logistics, inventory control, materials management, supplier selection, and contract management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on case studies. It typically takes around four hours to complete the exam.

To be eligible for the IPSCMP certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management and have completed a minimum of 40 continuing education credits related to purchasing or supply chain management. Applicants must also submit proof of their professional experience and continuing education credits when applying for the certification.

The cost of the IPSCMP certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $400-$600 to take the exam.

9. Institute for Supply Management’s Accredited Purchasing Practitioner Program (APPP)

The Institute for Supply Management's Accredited Purchasing Practitioner Program (APPP) is a professional credentialing program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities required of a successful purchasing practitioner. The APPP is designed to assess competency in the areas of strategic sourcing, contract management, supplier relationships, and supply chain management.

The APPP consists of three levels: Level 1 is the Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) certification; Level 2 is the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM); and Level 3 is the Accredited Purchasing Practitioner (APP). To earn each level of certification, applicants must pass an examination that tests their knowledge and understanding of the specific subject matter.

To obtain the CPP certification, applicants must complete a minimum of 60 hours of study and pass an exam that covers topics such as procurement principles, contract law, supply chain management, and supplier selection. To obtain the CPSM certification, applicants must complete a minimum of 120 hours of study and pass an exam that covers topics such as global sourcing strategies, risk management techniques, contract negotiation strategies, and supply chain analytics. Finally, to obtain the APP certification applicants must complete a minimum of 180 hours of study and pass an exam that covers topics such as advanced procurement principles, project management techniques for purchasing functions, effective communication strategies for working with suppliers/customers/stakeholders.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are taking self-study courses or attending classroom courses. Self-study courses typically range from $200-$400 per level while classroom courses can range from $1,000-$2,000 per level. Additionally there are fees associated with registering for exams which can range from $100-$300 per exam.

Overall it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all three levels depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each week.

10. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Professional Purchaser Program (CPP)

The Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) program is an online certification program offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to provide purchasing professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of professional purchasing. The CPP program consists of four courses: Introduction to Purchasing, Advanced Purchasing Practices, Strategic Sourcing and Negotiation Strategies. Each course focuses on a specific area in the purchasing process and provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful purchasers.

The CPP program can be completed in as little as three months or up to twelve months depending on how quickly one wishes to complete it. To get started, applicants must first register for the program online. Once registered, applicants will have access to all four courses which can be completed at their own pace. Once all four courses are completed, applicants will receive their CPP certification from APS.

The cost of the CPP program varies depending on whether you choose to take the four courses individually or together as a package. The individual courses range in price from $199 - $399 each while the entire package costs $1,195.

Do You Really Need a Merchandise Buyer Certificate?

No, you do not necessarily need a merchandise buyer certificate to become a successful merchandise buyer. However, having a certificate can provide the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure that you are successful in this field. A certificate program can provide you with an understanding of the principles of merchandising, how to negotiate effectively with vendors, and how to develop strong relationships with customers. Additionally, it can help you understand the best practices in merchandising and how to make sure that your store is profitable.

Having a merchandise buyer certificate can also give you an advantage over other candidates who may be applying for the same position. It will show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the industry and that you are committed to staying up-to-date on all of the latest trends and technologies within it.

Finally, having a merchandise buyer certificate may open doors for career advancement opportunities within your field as well as within other areas of retail management. Having certification can demonstrate your commitment to continuing education and staying informed about changes in the industry as well as developing new skills.

In conclusion, although having a merchandise buyer certificate is not required for success in this field, it can certainly give you an advantage when competing for jobs or exploring career advancement opportunities.

Related: Merchandise Buyer Resume Examples

FAQs About Merchandise Buyer Certifications

Q1. What is a Merchandise Buyer Certification?

A1. A Merchandise Buyer Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of retail buying. It provides an assurance to employers and customers that a buyer has the necessary knowledge, experience, and expertise to effectively manage retail buying decisions.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Merchandise Buyer?

A2. To become certified as a Merchandise Buyer, you must successfully complete an approved training program or course in retail buying. Upon successful completion of the program or course, you will receive your certification from the issuing organization.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Merchandise Buyer?

A3. Becoming certified as a Merchandise Buyer can help you stand out among other job applicants, demonstrate your commitment to professional development, gain recognition for your qualifications and abilities by employers, increase your salary potential, and open up more career advancement opportunities in the field of retail buying.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Merchandise Buyer?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Merchandise Buyer depends on which certification program you choose to pursue and how much prior experience or education you have in the field of retail buying. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within one year or less if taken full-time or longer if taken part-time or online courses are chosen instead.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Merchandise Buyer?

A5. Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least two years of relevant work experience in retail buying prior to applying for certification. Additionally, some programs may also require applicants to pass certain exams designed to test their knowledge about merchandise purchasing principles and procedures before they can be eligible for certification