News
Inside Our Buyers’ Networking Event
25th September 2025
We recently teamed up with Buying and Beyond and Life of a Buyer to host a networking evening for retail buyers. Around 50 buyers joined us, including some Fashion Retail Academy alumni, for an evening of connection and conversation.
The Evening
Guests were welcomed in the Electra House, home to EFI Training and the Fashion Retail Academy, with a glass of prosecco and the chance to chat, share ideas and swap experiences. The theme of the evening was preparing for peak trading - the busiest time of the retail year.
We were joined by Executive Coach and former Buying Director, Julia Darlington, who shared practical tips on handling this high-pressure period with confidence.
WHAT ATTENDEES SAID
Feedback from the night was really positive! Hear Maisie Tomlin, Buying & Admin Assistant at Marks & Spencer's thoughts:
It's been so much fun networking with everybody. I think networking is a vital key in building yourself as a character in the industry, especially in fashion - it's who you know!
Why it matters
As Katy, Co-Founder of Buying and Beyond summed up:
It was a space for buyers to connect, collaborate, share and offload away from the 9-5, away from the pitches and away from the trade meetings.
They strive to encourage our learners to excel, and I am proud to say we have achieved fantastic apprenticeship results over the past 5 years
Talent Development Team, Harrods