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Independent Merchandiser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpartanNash

Merchandiser,Fresh,Independent

Byron Center, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Establishes and maintains relationships with all independent customers that are serviced by the division. Ensures the execution of merchandising and marketing plans necessary to drive sales. Provides ...

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How much do independent merchandiser jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent merchandiser in the United States is $17.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Independent Merchandisers and how can they overcome them?

Independent Merchandisers often face challenges such as managing multiple client accounts, maintaining communication with store managers, and efficiently organizing their routes to cover several locations. To overcome these, successful merchandisers develop strong organizational skills, utilize route-planning tools, and build positive relationships with store staff to streamline in-store processes. Regularly updating inventory data and staying flexible with schedules also help in adapting to last-minute changes and ensuring client satisfaction.

Can I be a merchandiser with no experience?

Independent merchandisers often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. Basic skills such as organization, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are helpful, and some companies may prefer candidates with a valid driver’s license and access to transportation. Entry-level positions are common and suitable for those new to the field.

What is the highest paid merchandiser?

The highest paid merchandisers are typically experienced professionals or those working in specialized sectors such as luxury retail or large-scale grocery chains, earning salaries that can exceed $50,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include location, level of experience, and the complexity of the merchandise managed, with some earning additional bonuses or commissions.

What is an independent merchandiser?

An independent merchandiser is a self-employed professional who stocks, arranges, and maintains product displays in retail stores. They often work on a contract basis, using tools like planograms and inventory management systems, and typically set their own schedules. This role requires good organizational skills and knowledge of retail standards.

What is the difference between Independent Merchandiser vs Retail Merchandiser?

AspectIndependent MerchandiserRetail Merchandiser
CredentialsNone specific, often self-employedTypically requires basic retail or merchandising experience
Work EnvironmentSelf-directed, flexible locationsStore-based, structured schedules
EmployerSelf-employed or contractedRetail companies or chains
Industry UsageConsumer goods, grocery, apparel

Independent Merchandisers operate independently, often working on a contract basis, focusing on product placement and stock management across various locations. Retail Merchandisers work directly within retail stores, ensuring products are well-presented and stocked according to company standards. While both roles involve product display and stock management, Independent Merchandisers have more flexibility and operate independently, whereas Retail Merchandisers work within store environments under employer supervision.

What are the 7 rules of merchandising?

For an independent merchandiser, the 7 rules of merchandising include ensuring product visibility, maintaining organized displays, understanding customer preferences, managing inventory effectively, pricing competitively, keeping displays clean and appealing, and adjusting layouts based on sales data. These principles help optimize product presentation and sales performance in retail environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Merchandiser, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Merchandiser, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in retail or sales, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with planogram software, inventory management systems, and mobile reporting tools is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure that product displays are executed accurately and efficiently, directly impacting sales and customer satisfaction.

What are independent merchandisers?

Independent merchandisers are self-employed professionals who work with retailers and manufacturers to arrange, display, and maintain products in stores for optimal sales. Unlike company-employed merchandisers, they contract their services to multiple clients, often working on a flexible schedule. Their responsibilities include setting up displays, restocking shelves, ensuring proper product placement, and sometimes collecting sales data. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Independent Merchandiser jobs? The most popular types of Independent Merchandiser jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Merchandiser jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Merchandiser jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Merchandiser jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Merchandiser jobs are:
Independent Merchandiser jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Merchandiser job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,836 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Merchandiser,Fresh,Independent

Merchandiser,Fresh,Independent

SpartanNash

Byron Center, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

SpartanNash rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 322 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

429th of 727 rated retailers

Job description

As a member of the C&S Wholesale Grocers family of companies, SpartanNash is a food solutions company that delivers the ingredients for a better life. A distributor, wholesaler and retailer with a global supply chain network, SpartanNash distributes grocery and household goods, including fresh produce and the Our Family portfolio of products, to locations in all 50 states.

Our braggingly happy team members - ranging from bakery managers to order selectors; from IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists - create braggingly happy customers spanning national accounts, independent and chain grocers, e-commerce retailers, U.S. military commissaries and exchanges, and the Company's own brick-and-mortar grocery stores, pharmacies and fuel centers.

Ready to contribute to the success of our food solutions company? Apply now!

Location:

850 76th Street S.W. - Byron Center, Michigan 49315

Position Summary:

This role is responsibletomanagethewholesale sales and gross profit for their category and area. Establishes and maintains relationships with all independent customers that are serviced by the division. Ensures the execution of merchandising and marketing plans necessary to drive sales. Provides staff assistance in the areas of sales calls, procurement and merchandising.

Here's what you'll do:

  • Assures assigned stores meet sales, expenses, gross and net profit objectives while monitoring implementation of corporate merchandising programs and operational standards within area of responsibility.

  • Reviews programs prepared by the Category Management team, recommends adjustments to meet local conditions and works withSalesteam and if necessary, directly with independent retailers, on action plans to implement.

  • Monitors and follows up on operating performance of stores within local territory with specific regard to sales and profit performance of all existing and new products.

  • Analyze and interpret product category data and train others on how to use data to increase sales and maximize profits. Work with SpartanNash Category/Product Development Managers, industry partners, vendors, brokers, manufacturers and distributors to bring support to category management programs, including reset activities.

  • Advise Category Management team of product assortment/selection through appropriate analysis such as adding new items or deleting poor performing items to allow Category/Product Development Managers the ability to provide the most appropriate support to members.

  • Serve as the local primary source of information for assigned categories and use information to influence the team and to improve the results.

  • Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Here's what you'll need:

  • Bachelor's Degree (Required) Business Administration or other related field or equivalent combination of education and/or experience, MBA preferred.

  • Two years marketing, category management, product management and/or product development experience.

  • Experience purchasing in a retail or wholesale environment.

  • Strong oral and written communication, financial acumen, strategic problem solving, leadership, and analytical skills.

  • Excellent influencing and negotiations skills.

  • Proven experience working across business units to leverage resources and capabilities to accomplish company goals.

  • Proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with Category Management and purchasing systems such as Biceps Purchasing System is a plus.

  • Ability to travel up to 15%.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
May be required to lift and/or move 20 pounds. The associate is frequently required to sit/stand/walk. While performing the duties of this position, the associate is subject to a typical office environment and is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions. Temperatures may vary for those subject to any of the following areas: computer/server room, print shop, production area). The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate but may be high in distribution settings. Travel requirements vary by assignment.

As part of our People First culture, SpartanNash is proud to offer a robust and competitive Total Rewards benefits package.

SpartanNash is an Equal Opportunity Employer that invests in Associate development, recognizes and celebrates success, fosters two-way communication, and promotes a sense of belonging. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities and Veterans.

We are not able to sponsor work visas for this position.

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