Field Merchandiser Career Profile, Salary, & Job Outlook
What does a Field Merchandiser do?
Field Merchandisers or Merchandising Representatives help distribute free merchandising materials for an artist or label as well as support in-store promotions and partnerships. They help collaborate with music stores and venues to set up displays, merchandise, and promotions. Both a specialist in Sales and Marketing, a Field Merchandiser is more on the ground by traveling to store and venue locations, collect sales data, and implement marketing strategies.
How much does a Field Merchandiser make?
According to Ziprecruiter, Field Merchandisers maintain a national annual salary of $28,663, which is an hourly wage of $13.78. Entry-level field merchandisers start around $23,582 annually. Senior-level field merchandisers make an annual average of $34,551. The range in salary widely depends on factors including skill, seniority level, and location.
What impact does this career have towards the music industry?
Field Merchandisers provide valuable perspective on performance of promotions and are first to know the reception of music fans and customers. Because of their on-the-ground knowledge and experience, they bring insights that impact sales and marketing strategies.
What is the job outlook for a Field Merchandiser?
Forecasts show that music revenue will more than double to about $131 billion by 2030. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities in the field (including field merchandisers) are expected to grow at a rate of 9% during the 2019-2029 decade.
How to kick-off your career:
- Visit local record stores and study their merchandise displays.
- Join your favorite artist’s street team to learn about on-the-ground promotion.
- Explore the Clive Davis Institute at NYU x Billboard’s Music Essentials online course.
- Download Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Music Career Guide.
Learn from:
Tiffany Hardin
CEO & Found at Gild Creative Group, Music Industry Essentials contributor
Related Careers:
Licensing Manager | Licensing Representative | Sync Licensing Specialist | Music Licensing Counsel | Licensing Assistant