Buying and Beyond

Buying & Beyond

Welcome to the Buying & Beyond podcast, the podcast for all things Retail Buying...and more!Join us, Kate & Lyns, buyers and best friends, each week for industry insights, stories and expertise from real people in retail.   Enjoy honest stories and conversations, retail therapy and learn bite-sized tips from us and our guests from across the industry. Season 1 starts with Becoming a Buyer - the background to how we started in the industry, what exactly is a Buyer, working your way up the ladder and the main meetings and tasks working in BuyingSeason 2 is all about Being a Buyer - leading a team, coordinating trips, working with suppliers, product & personal development and sustainabilitySeason 3 takes us beyond just the direct Buying team - we introduce merchandisers, talk about designers and new trends, burnout & life coaching. Season 4 is where we are joined by more Retail Buyers and have also invited Retail Businesses to tell us their storiesSeason 5 continues with a fantastic assortment of Retail Buyers and Retail Businesses. We find out how they got started and what inspires & excites them about retail - plus we lift the lid on what Brands need and Buyers expect! We are your modern day mentors; prepping Buyers of the future and empowering current Buyers. Our insights for retail businesses and entrepreneurs will shine a light on how to to build, grow, scale and pitch like a pro! If you like listening to this podcast, please rate, follow and share - you can also find us on instagram @buyingandbeyond Come behind the scenes with Buying and Beyond

  1. 3D AGO

    S7 E10: Progress Over Perfection: Making Circular Fashion Work at Scale with Nick Lambert, Head of Circularity at Primark

    This week’s episode is a big one  and a conversation we’ve been really excited to share. We’re joined by Nick Lambert, Head of Circularity at Primark, whose career journey is a powerful example of how deep commercial experience can drive real, meaningful change in sustainability. Nick started his career like many in retail  working his way up through buying, beginning as a buying admin assistant at Arcadia (Topshop/Topman), before becoming a buyer and eventually moving to Primark nearly a decade ago. After 20 years in the industry, Nick made the transition from buying into sustainability, where he now leads Primark’s circular fashion strategy at scale. What makes this conversation so compelling is Nick’s honesty about the realities of change in a fast-paced, commercial retail environment. He shares how Primark’s sustainability function has evolved, how circularity is being embedded into buying and design teams, and why progression over perfection is the only way forward when working at volume. We dive into what circular design actually means in practice from hands-on co-creation workshops with buyers and designers, to the challenge (and success) of moving from 0% to 5% circular design in clothing in just two years. Nick also explains how material innovation plays a role, with 74% of Primark clothing now containing recycled or more sustainably sourced materials. A big part of this episode focuses on people how to bring buying teams on the journey, make sustainability exciting rather than overwhelming, and balance commercial KPIs alongside long-term environmental goals. Nick shares why internal ambassadors are key, and how creativity and collaboration unlock far more progress than compliance ever could. Finally, we look ahead. From upcoming EU legislation on eco-design, to the rise of pre-loved fashion and repair services, including Primark’s repair pilot with The Seam in Manchester, Nick gives a clear-eyed view of where circular retail is heading and why collaboration across the industry has never been more important. This is a must-listen for buyers, designers, sustainability teams, and anyone curious about how big retailers can be part of the solution. Three Key Takeaways 1) Scale Can Drive Real Impact While fast fashion often faces criticism for volume, Nick shows how scale can be a force for good. From supporting 300,000 small-holder farmers through the Cotton Project to achieving 10% recycled cotton usage, large retailers have the power to drive meaningful change when sustainability is built into the system. 2) Sustainability Needs Commercial Allies The biggest barrier to progress isn’t technical - it’s engagement. Embedding sustainability into buying teams means speaking their language, celebrating progress over perfection, and making change feel creative, achievable, and commercially relevant. 3) Collaboration Is Non-Negotiable Sustainability is one area where competitors are choosing collaboration over secrecy. Working with organisations like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Cotton Connect, and alongside brands such as H&M, Inditex, Ralph Lauren and Gucci, proves that shared challenges require shared solutions. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    1h 7m
  2. JAN 28

    S7 E9: Why we fell in love with retail buying - and why so many are leaving

    In this episode, Kate and Lyns reflect on seven seasons of Buying and Beyond and take on one of the most pressing - and personal - topics in retail today: why so many buyers are leaving the industry they once loved. With no guest this week, the conversation is honest and unfiltered. They explore the realities facing buying teams today, from shrinking budgets and growing workloads to the erosion of creativity and the frustration caused by unclear or constantly shifting brand strategies. The role of the buyer, once central and celebrated, is increasingly under pressure - and often misunderstood. Kate and Lyns look back on their own buying journeys, sharing stories from very different chapters of their careers - working under duvets to hit deadlines, travelling to Hong Kong, buying everything from jewellery and seasonal novelties to barbecues and wine. These reflections highlight just how much the buying role has changed over the years, and what’s been lost along the way. They discuss how the function has evolved over the past decade, including the growing influence of AI and automation in buying and merchandising. While technology can bring efficiencies, they question whether the industry is at risk of stripping out the very creativity, instinct, and inspiration that make great buying possible. Despite the challenges, the episode is ultimately hopeful. Kate and Lindsay share why they remain deeply committed to supporting the buying community - through networking events, mentorship, and creating spaces where buyers can connect, learn, and feel less alone. They argue that while the role of the buyer is transforming, the human judgement at the heart of buying cannot be replaced. This episode is a rallying call for retailers to recognise the true value of buying, protect the creativity that fuels it, and invest in the people who quietly drive commercial success. Three Key Takeaways 1) Buying is one of the most powerful levers in retail.  When buying is strong, businesses thrive. When it’s weak, no amount of marketing or branding can fix it. Buyers make the core decisions that drive profit, yet the role is often undervalued and under-resourced. 2) Creativity must be protected, even as efficiency increases.  AI and technology can support admin and process, but creativity, inspiration, and gut instinct remain essential. Cutting travel, inspiration, and thinking time risks eroding the very foundations of great ranges. 3) Community and connection are critical.  Buyers are often conditioned to work in silos, but breaking down barriers through networking, mentorship, and shared experiences is key to tackling burnout, reducing isolation, and helping the industry move forward together. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    37 min
  3. JAN 21

    S7 E8: Building beauty brands with Harry Zalk CEO of Arkive Headcare

    In today’s episode, we’re delighted to be joined by Harry Zalk, CEO of ARKIVE Headcare at Matrix Brands an innovative, B Corp–certified brand incubator creating and scaling some of the most exciting names in health and beauty. Matrix is behind an award-winning portfolio spanning skincare, haircare, bodycare and fragrance, including Cowshed, ARKIVE Headcare and Soho Skin. Beyond their own brands, they also develop private label products and brand-led experiences for major retail, travel and hospitality partners such as Space NK, Boots, Cathay Pacific, Emirates and British Airways - taking products from concept and NPD through to manufacturing, distribution and marketing. Harry’s career journey is a fascinating one. He shares how he transitioned from the world of apparel into beauty, what drew him to the category, and how those early experiences shaped his approach to brand building, sourcing and partnerships. We explore how Matrix’s business model has evolved over time, why adaptability is critical when scaling consumer brands, and how innovation sits at the heart of everything they do. We also dive deep into the realities of operating in beauty -  from navigating complex supply chains and regulatory requirements to the ongoing challenge of making genuinely sustainable choices, particularly around packaging. Harry offers a refreshingly honest perspective on what becoming a B Corp really means in practice, why sustainability is rarely straightforward, and how education and transparency play a vital role with both suppliers and customers. Relationships are a recurring theme throughout the conversation. Harry shares why long-term success depends on strong, collaborative partnerships and how open communication helps businesses navigate challenges while continuing to innovate. We also touch on emerging trends in beauty, including the rise of science-backed formulations and the enduring power of fragrance as a tool for connection and brand storytelling. This episode is packed with practical insight for anyone working in buying, sourcing, product development, or brand-building - especially those navigating the balance between innovation, sustainability and commercial growth. Three Key Takeaways 1️⃣ Innovation and Adaptability Drive Success Matrix Brands thrives by building bespoke supply chains, embracing innovation, and adding value through thoughtful product development. Their ability to adapt quickly to changing market demands and regulatory environments has been central to their growth. 2️⃣ Sustainability Is a Journey, Not a Destination Becoming a B Corp is an important milestone, but true sustainability requires constant effort, transparency and education. Harry highlights the need to be honest about trade-offs and to bring suppliers and customers along on the journey. 3️⃣ Relationships and Collaboration Are Essential Long-term success in beauty is built on strong, transparent relationships. Open communication, shared values and mutual education with suppliers and customers help businesses overcome challenges and unlock innovation. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    58 min
  4. JAN 14

    S7 E7: Burnout & building confidence in Buying & Design with The W-Collective

    In today’s episode, we’re joined by Katie and Clare, the brilliant duo behind The W-Collective -  a platform built on honest conversations, practical tools, and real support for working women. If you haven’t come across The W-Collective yet, their mission is refreshingly clear: no “girl boss” clichés, no fluff - just real talk about careers, confidence, burnout, and navigating the realities of work while staying human (and keeping your sense of humour). Between them, Katie and Clare bring a powerful blend of commercial and creative experience. Clare has spent over 15 years in senior commercial and buying roles at major retailers including Aldi, Lidl, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons. She’s deeply experienced in driving performance, making smart buying decisions, and climbing the corporate ladder - and just as passionate about sharing the lessons she’s learned along the way. Katie brings extensive experience in design leadership at brands such as ASOS, H&M, and M&S, where she’s worked at the intersection of creativity, sustainability, and brand strategy. Her career proves that commercial success and conscious decision-making can - and should - go hand in hand. In this episode, we explore how their individual journeys led them to each other and ultimately to the creation of The W-Collective. We talk openly about navigating corporate life, the pressures women face as they progress into senior roles, and the realities of burnout - including how to spot the early warning signs before things reach breaking point. Katie and Clare share practical advice on setting boundaries, managing stress, advocating for yourself, and why transparency around pay, progression, and personal experiences is so important. We also dive into how The W-Collective supports women through daily content, downloadable resources, and immersive coaching programmes like The Blueprint, all designed to help women thrive - not just survive -  at work. Honest, relatable, and packed with insight, this episode is a must-listen for buyers, leaders, and ambitious women navigating their careers. Three Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Setting Boundaries is Essential Learning to say no, protecting your time, and setting clear boundaries are crucial for long-term career success and wellbeing. Boundaries don’t limit ambition — they sustain it. 2️⃣ Burnout is Real — Learn to Recognise the Signs Burnout often shows up as emotional numbness, loss of motivation, or constant pressure. Recognising the signs early and prioritising active recovery and support can make all the difference. 3️⃣ Community and Transparency Drive Change Open conversations about pay, challenges, and lived experiences empower women to advocate for themselves and each other. Confidence grows when knowledge is shared and support is collective. You can find all of the incredible information and offers from the W collective here: https://w-collective.teachable.com/ And make sure you follow them on Instagram or Tik Tok for some really real and relevant reels! Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    1h 2m
  5. JAN 7

    S7 E6 - Expertise That Grows: Buying Plants with Claire Bishop, Senior Buyer at Dobbies Garden Centres

    In today’s episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Claire Bishop, Senior Plant Buyer at Dobbies Garden Centres and one of the most knowledgeable people we know when it comes to all things horticulture. Claire and Lynsey first met during our time at Dobbies, and I’ve always been in awe of her depth of plant knowledge and her genuine passion for the role plants play in people’s lives. When it comes to plant care, trends, and buying live product, Claire is a true specialist - what she doesn’t know about plants honestly isn’t worth knowing. Claire’s career is a fascinating one. From growing up surrounded by flowers, to working her way from the shop floor into buying, shaping national plant trends, serving as a Chelsea Flower Show Trade Judge, and most recently being appointed a Trustee of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, she’s someone who continues to push boundaries while staying deeply rooted in her love for plants. In this conversation, Claire shares her journey into buying and what inspired her to specialise in plants, explaining why specialist knowledge is so critical in categories like horticulture. We talk about the unique challenges and joys of buying live product - from seasonality and crop failures to the fast decision-making required when working with something that quite literally grows and changes every day. We also explore how COVID-19 transformed the houseplant market, introducing a new generation of “plant parents,” and why garden centres offer something supermarkets simply can’t when it comes to expertise, advice, and experience. Claire gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her time judging at the Chelsea Flower Show, what that role involves, and what it’s like to help set the benchmark for excellence in the industry. Claire also shares her excitement about joining the board of trustees at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, the responsibility that comes with it, and why protecting and promoting plant knowledge has never been more important. We round off the episode by diving into Spring/Summer trends for the season ahead, the brands and retailers she’s admiring right now, and her advice for anyone buying, selling, or simply caring for plants. This episode is packed with insight, expertise, and genuine love for the product - a must-listen for anyone working in specialist retail, buying, or the world of horticulture. Three Key Takeaways; 1️⃣ Expertise Shapes the Category  In specialist areas like horticulture, deep product knowledge and passion aren’t optional - they’re what allow buyers to shape trends, build trust with customers, and truly add value. 2️⃣ Adaptability is Essential  Plant buying is fast-moving and unpredictable. From crop failures to changing customer behaviour, buyers must think quickly, plan smartly, and adapt constantly while maintaining quality and standards. 3️⃣ Plants Enrich Lives  Beyond sales and trends, plants play a powerful role in wellbeing, creativity, and connection to nature - making them one of the most rewarding (and meaningful) categories in retail. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    49 min
  6. 12/17/2025

    S7 E5: What makes a standout retail range? Buyer–Designer partnerships and the story behind Everley Studio

    In this episode, we’re joined by two absolute gems of the design world - Sarah Spires and Rachel Perkins - the creative duo and big-hearted energy behind Everley Studio. Before launching Everley, Sarah and Rachel spent years inside retail working for some of the biggest names on the UK high street: Next, George, F&F, and Laura Ashley. Between them, they’ve designed across womenswear, menswear, kids, knitwear, swim, and everything in between. They’ve lived the fast-paced, slightly chaotic, always creative world of in-house design and now they’re pouring all of that experience into Everley Studio, their thriving independent design business built on collaboration, flexibility, and genuinely great vibes. Everley Studio brings together a talented crew of designers who partner with brands to build thoughtful, commercial, beautifully crafted ranges. Their model offers businesses the flexibility of project-based support while giving their team the freedom to work in a way that sparks creativity a win for everyone involved. In our conversation, Sarah and Rachel take us behind the scenes of their journey, sharing how they first got started in design and the twists and turns that shaped their careers. They open up about the unique (and sometimes emotional!) dynamics between buyers, designers, and merchandisers, what truly makes a great buyer–designer partnership, and the moments that put those relationships to the test. They reflect on the buyers they loved working with most not naming names, but highlighting the skills and behaviours that set those collaborations apart and explain why trust, communication, and compromise are the secret sauce behind every standout range. Sarah and Rachel also reveal what inspired them to start Everley Studio, what they’ve learned while building a creative business from the ground up, how AI is influencing the future of design without ever replacing the human touch, and even share a look at the trends they’re already spotting for the seasons ahead. We also dive into the emotional investment designers bring to their work, how they handle feedback, where creativity meets commercial strategy, and how the industry is shifting toward more flexible, adaptive ways of working. And of course… we end with a bit of retail therapy! Our Three Key Takeaways: 1) The Power of Relationships:  Success in design and retail hinges on strong, collaborative partnerships between buyers, designers, and merchandisers. Trust, open communication, and understanding each other’s pressures and perspectives are what turn good ideas into great products. 2) Flexibility and Adaptability:  Fashion is evolving fast. Everley Studio’s agile, project-based model shows how embracing new ways of working creates opportunity, resilience, and space for creativity to thrive. 3)  Embracing Technology - Without Losing the Human Touch:  AI is transforming design, speeding up processes and unlocking new possibilities. But creativity, intuition, and emotional connection still sit at the heart of great design. The future belongs to those who can blend innovation with humanity. This episode is packed with industry insights, honest reflections, funny stories, and practical advice for anyone navigating the world of fashion desig Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    1h 1m
  7. 12/10/2025

    S7 E4: How a former M&S and Amazon Buyer turned her fashion career into a personal styling business, with Alex Stanley

    We’re so excited to welcome Alex Standley to the podcast this week!  Alex has spent over 15 years navigating the high-stakes, fast-paced world of fashion buying at global giants like Marks & Spencer and Amazon - from trend-spotting and category strategy to negotiating those all-important big meetings.  After a successful career in buying, Alex made a bold leap into entrepreneurship and founded her own personal styling company, helping high-performing women align their wardrobes with their leadership goals, confidence, and visibility. Basically, turning closets into a strategy for success.  Alex and Lynsey first met when they were both buying for the fashion accessories department at M&S - so it’s extra fun to have her on the podcast sharing all her stories! In this episode, we chat about how she first knew fashion buying was her thing, her career journey and the highs, lows, and unexpected twists along the way, the categories she loved buying most, the challenges she faced, the brands she’s currently admiring, why she started her styling business, and her proudest moments since. Along the way, Alex shares memorable travel stories, insights on sustainability, the transition from corporate to running her own business, and the moments that really shaped her career. Three big takeaways:  Three Key Takeaways: Embrace Change and Growth: Alex’s career demonstrates the value of stepping out of your comfort zone, whether it’s taking on unexpected responsibilities early in your career or making bold moves into new industries and entrepreneurship.Align Your Work With Your Values: She also proves how aligning your work with your values-  whether it’s sustainability, intentionality, or empowering women- can guide your career and business decisions.Relationships and Adaptability Matter: And finally, she reminds us that relationships and adaptability matter: from negotiating deals to learning new skills, success is all about strong connections and being open to learning.Alex demonstrates the power of embracing change and growth, showing how stepping out of your comfort zone early (and later!) can lead to amazing opportunities. Whether you’re curious about the inner workings of fashion buying, thinking about a career pivot, or looking for inspiration to bring more purpose to your work, this episode is full of practical wisdom, personal stories, and actionable advice. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    41 min
  8. 12/03/2025

    S7 E3: What’s Next for Retail? AI, Innovation & Big Career Support with Julia Darlington (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of our conversation with Julia Darlington, we shift from her remarkable career journey to the future of the retail industry and the work she’s doing now to shape the next generation of female leaders. With decades of senior experience across some of the UK’s most iconic retailers, Julia brings a clear-eyed, forward-thinking perspective on what’s changing, what still needs to evolve, and how retailers can prepare for the market of tomorrow. We unpack the role of AI and digital innovation in the retail landscape, the cultural and structural changes the industry still needs to make, and the opportunities ahead for brands and teams who stay curious and adaptable. We also dive into Julia’s coaching business why she started it, the gap she set out to fill, and her mission to empower ambitious women rising into senior and C-suite leadership roles. Julia shares the challenges she sees most often, alongside the mindset shifts that create real confidence and momentum. The episode closes with her grounded, practical advice on what it takes to succeed in buying today — whether you’re early in your career or stepping into a leadership role. What We Cover in Part 2: The future of retail & the role of AIReal-world examples of AI-driven innovationWhat still needs to change in retail culture & leadershipWhy Julia launched her coaching businessSupporting ambitious women into senior and C-suite rolesChallenges women uniquely face in the retail industryHer advice for succeeding in buying right nowThe mindset shifts leaders need for the futureThree Key Takeaways from Part 2: 1. AI is reshaping retail and the opportunity is huge.  From product development to forecasting and customer experience, AI is already transforming how the industry operates. Julia breaks down what’s changing, what it means for teams, and why now is the moment to lean in rather than fear it. 2. Retail still needs cultural and leadership change.  Julia reflects openly on the shifts she’d still like to see in the industry from the way teams are supported to how leaders show up and why these changes are essential for the future of retail. 3. Women in retail need tailored support to rise and thrive.  Through her coaching work, Julia helps ambitious women navigate the jump into senior and C-suite roles. She shares the patterns she sees, the barriers that still exist, and the mindset shifts that unlock confidence, clarity and momentum. You’ll love this episode because it blends big-picture retail insight with practical, human advice.  If you’re curious about where retail is heading, exploring leadership, or wanting to understand how AI will shape the next decade this conversation is packed with clarity, honesty, and inspiration.  Julia brings a rare blend of expertise, warmth and vision that will leave you thinking differently about your role, your career, and the future of our industry. Support the show If you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.uk Find out more about us www.buyingandbeyond.co.uk If you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

    46 min

About

Welcome to the Buying & Beyond podcast, the podcast for all things Retail Buying...and more!Join us, Kate & Lyns, buyers and best friends, each week for industry insights, stories and expertise from real people in retail.   Enjoy honest stories and conversations, retail therapy and learn bite-sized tips from us and our guests from across the industry. Season 1 starts with Becoming a Buyer - the background to how we started in the industry, what exactly is a Buyer, working your way up the ladder and the main meetings and tasks working in BuyingSeason 2 is all about Being a Buyer - leading a team, coordinating trips, working with suppliers, product & personal development and sustainabilitySeason 3 takes us beyond just the direct Buying team - we introduce merchandisers, talk about designers and new trends, burnout & life coaching. Season 4 is where we are joined by more Retail Buyers and have also invited Retail Businesses to tell us their storiesSeason 5 continues with a fantastic assortment of Retail Buyers and Retail Businesses. We find out how they got started and what inspires & excites them about retail - plus we lift the lid on what Brands need and Buyers expect! We are your modern day mentors; prepping Buyers of the future and empowering current Buyers. Our insights for retail businesses and entrepreneurs will shine a light on how to to build, grow, scale and pitch like a pro! If you like listening to this podcast, please rate, follow and share - you can also find us on instagram @buyingandbeyond Come behind the scenes with Buying and Beyond