An interview with Muck Boot Buyer Sarah

How did you get into buying and merchandising?  

I really enjoyed textiles at school. Whilst completing my textile A Level my teacher opened my eyes to different careers within the retail industry. I decided to apply for university retail courses and eventually went on to study Fashion and Textile Buying, Management and Retail at the University of Huddersfield. It was the best decision for me and I've enjoyed my subsequent job roles in the retail industry. I'm proud to have worked my way up to my current role as Muck Boot Merchandiser/Buyer.  

What does your role as the Muck Boot Merchandiser/Buyer involve?  

My role with Muck Boots encompasses a vast array of tasks and responsibilities. In simple terms, I am responsible for ensuring we have the right stock, at the right time and in the right place. I work with many different people and areas of the business to achieve our Muck Boot goals. This includes sales, marketing, warehousing, logistics and customer services. I enjoy the wide variety of work.  

What is your favourite thing about being the Buyer for Muck Boots?  

My favourite thing is seeing the success and growth of the brand and knowing that I have played a part in it. It's great working for a brand I truly believe in.  

In my free time I can often be found on a dog walk in a pair of Muck Boots. Seeing the growing number of people out and about wearing Muck is very rewarding.  

How has coronavirus impacted your job?  

Like many people, I have gone from working in an office to working from home. Nearly one year on, it’s hard to remember a time before video calls.  

Forecasting what stock is required for Muck Boots has been especially challenging. Demand for wellington boots has significantly grown at a time when our lead times to get product has increased. More people are getting outside and taking advantage of walking. Demand for wellies continues to grow and forecasting whether this trend is here to stay is a conversation my colleagues and I frequently discuss. 

What is your Muck Boot style of choice?  

My favourite welly is the Arctic Sport II Tall. I have a pair in the Navy Spruce colour. These were the first pair of Muck Boots I purchased and I've been wearing them ever since. I primarily wear them whilst walking the dog. They look great. Keep my feet warm and dry. And are also very comfortable to wear. 

For times when I don't need a tall welly, I opt for a pair of Apex Zip. I love these boots. So much so my Mum and her friend now also have a pair!  

Can you tell us about the Outscape and Forager styles which are new for spring?  

The Outscape is a versatile shoe. It’s ideal for those times when you don’t need a waterproof boot but something more lightweight. Perhaps for doing the gardening or a spring walk. The Outscape is 100% waterproof and delivers the comfort and performance you expect from a Muck Boot. There are two different styles in the range: a shoe/ trainer silhouette and a mid-height boot. This style is available for men and ladies in a selection of colours. I love the classic black women’s Outscape shoe.   

The Forager is unlike any other product in our range. This boot has an easy-to-fold rubber upper which allows it to be worn at multiple heights. It’s lightweight, packable and has the added benefit of a gaiter collar providing a customised fit. The forager comes in unisex sizes and is available in three colours: black, dark grey and tan.  

Are there any exciting new product launches for AW21?  

We have expanded our range and there are lots of new products and exciting new colourways coming. A few highlights include our new Apex Lace-Up available for Men and Ladies. Another favourite of mine is the new Ladies Arctic Sport II Tall in Olive. I can't wait to see how the new styles perform in season. 
 
Related Categories 

Women’s Dog Walking Wellies
Men’s Dog Walking Wellies
 
Popular Products 

Women’s Arctic Sport II Boots
Men’s Arctic Sport Boots
Apex Collection 
Outscape Collection 
Forager Collection