Retail margins are under pressure, and purchasing mistakes often make the problem worse. From inaccurate forecasting to poor supplier data and siloed demand planning, retailers risk lost sales and rising markdowns. This guide explores the five most common purchasing mistakes costing retailers margin and how smarter forecasting, unified data, and modern retail systems can fix them.

Master Data Management (MDM) is the foundation of unified retail in 2026. Learn how Island Pacific’s MDM solution centralizes product, supplier, pricing, and inventory data to power accurate omnichannel experiences, AI-driven insights, and efficient operations. Improve fulfilment, planning, and customer satisfaction with a single source of truth across your retail ecosystem.