At Matalan, we believe in putting our Everyday Family Heroes first. Our promise is to empower these heroes by providing incredible products at great value. Founded in Liverpool in the 1980s, we have built a reputation for delivering value and quality. With over 230 stores across the UK and a growing online presence, there’s never been a better time to be part of our journey.

Why Apply for Our 12-Month Buying Placement?

Our 12-month Buying Placement gives university students like you the chance to be at the forefront of product creation and selection. You’ll be responsible for sourcing and overseeing the development of exciting new products that align with customer trends and demands!

  • Real Experience: Work with our Buying team and gain hands-on experience in the product development process, from concept to delivery.
  • Make an Impact: Your insights matter! Conduct market research to identify trends and collaborate with teams to influence product strategy and purchasing decisions.
  • Career Growth: Benefit from a dedicated training program that supports your professional development, with opportunities for networking within the fashion industry.
  • Dynamic Environment: Experience a fun, challenging workplace where every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow in your career.

Ready to Shape the Future of Retail?

Join us at Matalan and turn your passion for fashion into a fulfilling career. Apply now!

Role Benefits Discover Your Future at Matalan

Unlock a world of opportunity as a Buying Placement Student with Matalan! Join our vibrant fashion retail team and take the first step towards a rewarding career. Here’s what you can expect:

Your Role:

  • Hands-On Experience: Work closely with industry professionals who will guide you through the buying process and teach you the critical skills needed to excel in a buying career.
  • Trend Analysis: Conduct research to identify market trends and customer needs, collaborating with Trading teams to source products that drive our product strategy.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Engage with various teams to manage the product development process from concept to sign-off, ensuring that we meet quality, cost, and time-to-market targets.
  • Strategic Support: Monitor sales trends and analyse customer demand, helping to shape purchasing strategies that align with company goals and customer preferences.

Why Choose Matalan? Here Are the Benefits!

  • 25 Days of Holiday
  • 20% Employee Discount
  • Dedicated Training Program: Receive tailored training to help you grow and succeed in your career.

What we’re looking for

We’re on the lookout for amazing candidates to join our Buying teams! Here’s what we’re hoping to find:

  • A 2nd-year student ideally studying a Fashion-related course that requires a 12-month placement, starting July 2025.
  • Retail work experience would be advantageous but is not necessary.
  • Ability to work independently and manage your own workload effectively.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate at all levels and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Self-motivated and committed to developing your skills and knowledge in the buying process.
  • Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Microsoft Excel, to conduct data analysis and trend research.

At Matalan, diversity is super important to us. We celebrate every background and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, or any other personal characteristics. We’re all about equal opportunities and encourage everyone to apply, no matter where you’re from.

We want to support you in doing your best throughout the application process and beyond, so if you need any adjustments to help you shine, just let us know!

Ready to Make Retail Real? Let’s Do This!

NOTE: If we receive a lot of applications, we may close the post early, so don’t wait—apply ASAP!