The Buying and Merchandising Operations Research Event requires the preparation of a detailed written strategic plan and presentation based on the results of a research study for a company responsible for getting the product into the hands of the customer through forecasting, planning, buying, displaying, selling and providing customer service. Examples may include any retail or wholesale business that provides consumer goods: specialty stores, department stores, shopping malls, grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, discount stores, farmers markets and car dealerships.