Merchandise Analyst

Position Overview:  The Merchandise Planning Analyst plays a crucial role in driving sales and maximizing profitability by developing and executing strategic merchandise plans. This individual will analyze historical data, current trends, and market insights to forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time. The ideal candidate is a highly analytical, detail-oriented, and collaborative individual with a passion for the retail industry.   Position Details: Work Environment:At Duluth Trading Company, we value face-to-face interactions that foster our culture of learning, creativity, and teamwork. The role is based at our headquarters near Madison, WI. You will work in the office Monday through Thursday, with the option to work from home on Fridays if you prefer. What You’ll Do:  Demand Forecasting, Replenishment, & Planning:Assist in the development and maintenance of accurate sales and inventory forecasts at various levels (SKU, category, channel, etc.).Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and promotional activities to identify patterns and predict future demand.Manage category replenishment with the goal of hitting targets by size and color, ensuring stores and d/c’s have the appropriate amount of stock with the right balance of core product and seasonal.Manage the EOL (end of life) process for skus that are sunsetting.  Minimize split shipments by exception managing EOL skus.Utilize forecasting tools and techniques to improve forecast accuracy.Collaborate with cross-functional teams (buying, design, marketing, sales) to gather input and refine forecasts.Inventory Management:Monitor inventory performance and identify opportunities to minimize markdowns and maximize sell-through.Analyze stock levels and recommend actions to address overstocks and understocks.Manage allocation and replenishment strategies to ensure optimal product availability across all channels.Performance Analysis & Reporting:Generate and analyze weekly, monthly, and seasonal sales and inventory reports.Review key performance indicators (KPIs) and track performance against targets.Conduct in season and post-season analysis to evaluate performance and identify areas for improvement.Present findings and recommendations to management.Market & Trend Analysis: Stay informed of current fashion trends, competitive landscape, and market dynamics. Partner with the Insights team to analyze consumer behavior and identify emerging trends to inform planning decisions. Conduct weekly competitive analysis to assess pricing, assortment, and promotional strategies.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with buying, design, sourcing, marketing, and sales teams to align on product strategies and ensure effective execution. Communicate regularly with stakeholders to provide updates on sales, inventory, and forecast performance.Contribute to the development of seasonal assortment plans and promotional calendars. Participate in assortment reviews. What We’re Looking For:Bachelor's Degree in Business or related area of studyEquivalent work experience will be consideredExcellent communication and interpersonal skills.Strong organizational and time-management skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environmentDetail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.Ability to analyze data and draw actionable insights.3+ years of experience preferredNo Management Experience Required Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. Duluth Headquarters Benefits and PerksOur pursuit of a better way isn't just about our products—it's about our people too.  That's why our Dam Good Crew enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, designed to support their well-being and success.Multiple Medical plan options Dental & Vision plans Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts Health Savings Account including company contributions  Company paid Life Insurance and AD&DCompany paid Short-Term DisabilityOther various voluntary benefits including: Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Long-Term Disability and Supplemental Life Insurance401(k) Employer MatchEmployee Stock Purchase Plan to purchase Duluth Trading Co. stock at a discount 12 weeks of Parental Leave at 100% pay Paid holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas DayPaid Time Off: take it as you need it policy for exempt employeesDaily pay available  40% Employee Discount Flexible Fridays Onsite fitness center Position Compensation Outline Compensation Range: $60,000 to $75,000year This position is eligible to participate in the company bonus program.  Compensation listed is for the full-time position at this specific location and is based on several factors, including experience, and qualifications. Benefits and perks may have eligibility requirements and are subject to change. #LIONSITE The responsibilities outlined in this position description are a guideline for the general duties of the position and are not exhaustive of all duties inherent in the job. Duluth Trading Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.  About Duluth Trading Company: Started in 1989, Duluth Trading Company exists to enable hard-working individuals to take on life with their own two hands. Folks that revel in doing it the hard way and celebrate finding a better way. We seek talented individuals who share these beliefs and are excited to further the Duluth Trading legacy with a digital-first mindset, always moving forward and always innovating. From ingenious Duluth workwear, to comfortably capable Buck Naked Underwear, to outside-embracing AKHG, it’s all about the innovative gear and gadgets that equip customers for a more hands-on way of life. Top-notch quality, immersive storytelling, outstanding customer service, and the shared belief that the go-all-in-and-dig-deep spirit exists with everyone are what sets Duluth Trading Co. apart. We seek talented folks looking to be part of a can-do team that’s hellbent on helping the world to gear up, get its hands dirty, and do. 

Created: 2025-09-04