It’s all about timing and taste.

Check Webster’s for the word "allocate," and you’ll understand the importance of Kohl’s Merchandise Planning and Allocation department. Definition-wise, allocate means "to set apart or earmark." Kohl’s-wise, Planning & Allocation means making sure our stores have the inventory they need, when they need it.

This team of just-in-time-minded professionals makes sure they’ve earmarked the right amount of inventory for each store based on regional shopping patterns and customer preferences. They’re in charge of buying Kohl’s core products, ensuring our ability to stay in stock — a key competitive advantage of Kohl’s.

Obviously, to accomplish all this requires constant communication with the stores, as well as strong market awareness and a firm handle on the company’s inventory levels. Merchandise Planning & Allocation works closely with the stores and our distribution centers to make sure our northern stores are fully stocked with parkas when our southern stores still sport sandals and shorts.

Merchandise Planning & Allocation is also responsible for new store expansion. This team analyzes new markets, determines our entry strategy, and then looks at each market after opening to assess our ongoing position by business category. They also analyze existing markets, looking for opportunities to drive sales through business intensification.

Departmental responsibilities include:

• Allocating fashion merchandise
• Building high-level financial plans
• Replenishing basic merchandise
• Implementing presentation programs for private label goods and branded merchandise shops
• Maintaining unit inventory integrity
• Communicating with stores for merchandise availability