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Retail Management

  • RMG 100 - Issues and Innovations in Retailing I
    Course DescriptionThis course will provide students with an insightful understanding of the current nature of the retail landscape. Changes in the retail sector and in society, which have an impact on Canadian competitiveness will be emphasized. Topics covered will be introductory by nature and will vary according to changes in the prevailing retail environment.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 200 - Introduction to Retail
    Course DescriptionRetail is everything, everywhere and everyone! Retail is one of the most fascinating, challenging and multi-faceted environments business students will be exposed to. The objectives of the course is to provide both an understanding of the key retail strategy components and change the student focus from a consumer to a business manager. This will be accomplished through examining the many key functional areas within a retail business including location and market strategy, store design and layout, merchandise planning, human resources, financial strategy and customer relationships. The understanding of these functional areas will illustrate how retailers can adapt to the competitive and continually changing environment by formulating strategies, which result in profitable performance. An introduction to retail profit drivers will be a key element of the course.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 210 - Shopping and Society
    Course DescriptionShopping is a ubiquitous, inescapable part of everyday life. This ordinary activity has a pervasive, significant influence on our lives, our communities, our culture and society. Utilizing a socio-cultural lens, this course provides an overview of the historical and socio-cultural development of shopping places, shoppers’ identities, consumption patterns and behaviours.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:LL
    Custom Requisites:Custom Requisites: Not available to Retail Management Students.
  • RMG 300 - Retail Information Systems
    Course DescriptionThis course examines retail information technologies and systems necessary for successful data access and retrieval, and managerial analytics within a retail environment. Topics include: information needs (internal and external) in a retail environment, access to information through electronic media and special services, bench-marking, database management, techniques for effective dissemination, privacy and use of information throughout the organization and supply chain.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200 and ITM 102
  • RMG 301 - Retail Operations Management
    Course DescriptionThis course will focus on how retail companies compete by designing and operating effective value chains. Operations strategy guides retailers as they buy merchandise and move it to the marketplace via efficient processes. Internal and external value chains are linked so that costs are reduced and inventory levels are optimized. The processes, that are the building blocks of successful retail organizations, include planning, inventory management, location selection and resource scheduling.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 302 - Retail Consumer Insight
    Course DescriptionThe course introduces the key theoretical concepts to the understanding of consumer behaviour. Building on this foundation the retail/consumer relationship will be examined through the case study method. Topics such as the retail brand, consumer research and value equations will be introduced and examined.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
    Antirequisites:MKT 400
  • RMG 303 - Managing the Retail Workplace
    Course DescriptionThe retail landscape is constantly changing and, with these changes, the expectations of customers and retail employees are constantly evolving. As a result, the development of an adaptive workforce is a strategic priority for retailers. This course examines how retail workplaces are organized, how innovation and new skills are enabled, and how individuals and diverse teams develop ways to work together in the dynamic retail environment.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 400 - Merchandise Buying and Planning I
    Course DescriptionThis course examines the merchandise buying and planning function within the context of bricks and mortar and e-commerce retail organizations. Course content includes understanding customers, making buying decisions, forecasting, controlling inventories, preparing buying plans, developing assortment plans, managing vendor relations and pricing the merchandise. This is accomplished through a heavy emphasis on retail math and Excel. Merchandise buying and planning requires an understanding of the buyer's roles and responsibilities as well as their relationship to other functions inside and outside the organization.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 434 - Intro to Logistics and Supply Chain Mgmt
    Course DescriptionThis course serves as an introduction to the fundamentals of global supply and distribution networks management (traditionally known as Supply Chain and Distribution Channel). The course is primarily focused on the planning, implementation, monitor and control of global, regional and local distribution networks in support of retail business operations. The course covers fundamentals of supply and distribution networks, the link between distribution networks and marketing strategies, and the link between supplier networks and inventory management. Supply and distribution networks include aligning supply networks with corporate strategies, implementation of corporate sustainability and social responsibility related policies, global transportation, and supporting information technology. Throughout the course, analytical tools and methods are utilized to support decision making and manage supply and distribution networks uncertainty.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 452 - Visual Merchandising and Space Planning
    Course DescriptionStudents will study the theories and practices related to visual merchandising and space planning. An examination of leading edge visual merchandising practices will be explored with respect to in-store design and layout. Space planning software will be used to develop planograms, in-store displays, window and fixture design and configuration. Students will incorporate these planning processes in retail decision-making.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 500 - Retail Strategy
    Course DescriptionThis course examines how retailers can build differentiating value through the development of a cohesive strategy. The strategic planning process will be explored, including analysis frameworks, development processes and communication priorities. Students will analyze strategic decision-making while integrating business models/processes and EDI and sustainability considerations acquired throughout their retail management experiences.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 700 and FIN 300
    Antirequisites:BUS 800
  • RMG 510 - I Shop Therefore I Am
    Course DescriptionWhether we are shopping for carrots or cars, we make choices about and between products. These choices are informed by our backgrounds, situations, cognitions, behaviours, and emotions — and they can affect how we feel about ourselves and others, thereby contributing to our perceptions of identity. This course examines how shopping is intertwined with individuals’ social and self identities, how shoppers’ identities are affected by retailers’ and marketers’ view of the aggregate consumer, and how shoppers interact with brands and related constructed identities. Students’ understanding of these perspectives will be informed by active qualitative research and debates.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:UL
    Custom Requisites:Custom Requisites: Not available to Retail Management Students.
  • RMG 700 - Applied Retail Research
    Course DescriptionThis course is designed to develop students' analytical skills in effective use of retail business research. Emphasis is placed on the practical applications of research, the use of appropriate data analysis techniques, interpretation of results, and the effective communication of research findings. The aim of the course is to encourage the intelligent use of research and the ability to develop a research project.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
    Antirequisites:MKT 500
  • RMG 79A/B - Internship Placement and Prep
    Course DescriptionThe first half of the course, RMG 79A, is designed to prepare students to find and document their progress through the School's Internship Program. In RMG 79B, students complete their mandatory work placements in the summer following their sixth semester. Students’ work experience may cover one or more areas from a broad range of retail opportunities, including visual merchandising, store management, business/merchandise analyst roles, marketing internships, and more, to develop leadership and decision-making skills. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:2
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 300, RMG 700, ACC 406
  • RMG 800 - Special Topics in Retailing
    Course DescriptionThis course is designed to allow students to assume a major research/independent study project, which is completed under the direction of a faculty member and approved in advance by the course coordinator. Prior to being admitted to this course, students must submit a proposal outlining an appropriate area of interest for research and/or independent study upon which they will present a written report at the conclusion of the academic year. See teaching department for consent criteria.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Consent:Departmental consent required
  • RMG 801 - Retail Career Strategies
    Course DescriptionThis course provides students with an opportunity to reflect upon their leadership and management experience in the retail industry. This experience is drawn from at least one school-approved internship/work placement (400 hours min) completed prior to enrolment in the course. During the course, students engage in learning experiences that develop their personal leadership skills and contribute to building the role of students in the broader retail management community. The course also provides insights into career development strategies, as students look ahead to graduation.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 806 - Retailer Perspectives on Category Management
    Course DescriptionCategory Management is a collaborative process between retailers and manufacturers to optimize sales and profitability, deliver customer value and meet consumer and shopper needs through the strategic management of product categories. The course provides students with a solid foundation of Category Management knowledge and industry best practices for the coming decade via classroom learning and online modules. Students have the opportunity to build and develop data analysis, critical thinking and decision-making skills across four key areas: pricing, promotion, placement and assortment. The course offers students the opportunity to earn Level 1 of the School of Retail Management’s Category Management Professional Development Program.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 817 - Digital Advertising in Retailing
    Course DescriptionThe digital age has opened up new channels of communication and new types of messages. This course will offer students real world experience in planning, implementing and measuring a digital marketing campaign that is embedded in an integrated marketing and retail and services strategy. Students will become AdWords Google Ads Certified and will work with a retail business or service provider to plan, execute, and measure a digital advertising campaign.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 821 - Research and Analytics in Social Media
    Course DescriptionStudents will learn how to use tools to listen to conversations across digital platforms and make meaningful conclusions in a retail context. Cloud-based tools will be used to collect, analyze, and visualize publicly available online conversations from social media platforms. Topics will include collecting and storing data, studying networks and links, analyzing comments, sentiments, hashtags, and images. Ethics and other important topics will also be covered.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 902 - Franchising
    Course DescriptionThe focus of this course is on business format franchising - the transfer of a particular business format or way of conducting business. The costs and benefits of franchising from both the franchisee's and franchiser's point of view will be explored. Franchiser/franchisee communication and relationship will be discussed. Students will examine how to determine the feasibility of a franchise opportunity, the legal dimensions of franchising, characteristics of the typical franchisee, and international franchising as a means of expansion.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 905 - Design, Commerce and Culture
    Course DescriptionThis course aims to provide an in-depth reflective understanding of the human designed environment, from a retail perspective. Concentrating on the main historic movements of the twentieth century, the course will address the ways in which the products of a culture are seen as representations of its cultural identity and value system. Changing social and cultural patterns, developing technology, and the economic climate will be explored. Ethical and environmental implications of the retail environment will be discussed.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
    Antirequisites:GEO 421
  • RMG 906 - International Retail Markets
    Course DescriptionThis course examines the ever changing trend toward international retailing. As proactive Canadian retailers look for opportunity outside of Canada, a number of international retailers are turning their eyes on Canada. We will explore determinants for international expansion, the growth of international retail organizations, methods of appraising international retail market opportunities and how to recommend growth strategies to take advantage of the learning generated. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of several international markets and how to present their recommendations in a business environment.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 907 - Relationship Marketing
    Course DescriptionThe relationship between the consumer and the retailer has been perceived as a transaction and marketing strategy has been based on this perception. Retailers are moving to an ethical relationship view of the buying process - the building of a long term relationship with the customer as the central theme of marketing strategy. This course will explore the underlying theories, values and benefits of doing business through one-to-one relationships with consumers using technological advances. A one-to-one customer-centric approach enables retail marketers to reach customers from multicultural backgrounds, a distinguishing feature of the Canadian marketplace.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 908 - Issues and Innovations in Retailing II
    Course DescriptionThis course critically examines the current retail environment for important trends and issues within a local, national and international context. The role of innovation and disruption in retailing is studied both in theory and in practice. Students discover and examine their role in the innovation process in a team context. Students' retail knowledge is synthesized and advanced by developing and designing a customer journey, including identifying, analyzing and mapping a retailer's touchpoints.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 500
  • RMG 909 - Merchandise Buying and Planning II
    Course DescriptionThis course compliments Merchandise Buying and Planning I by introducing students to concepts of merchandise management. Course content emphasizes analytical and quantitative aspects of merchandising planning. Expected outcomes include a complete understanding of financial strategy as it relates to merchandise management, the development of dollar merchandise plans, measures of productivity and vendor performance analysis. Information technology and decision support systems represent an integral part of the course content.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 400
  • RMG 910 - Omni-Channel Retailing
    Course DescriptionGreat retail is about creating a consistent experience across all channels and touchpoints with customers. This includes having a holistic strategy, known as the omni-channel approach, to manage service and distribution channels that include brick and mortar stores, online, mobile, catalogs, and more. For this reason, it is critical to understand how these channels function together, as well as the beneficial outcomes (e.g., customer satisfaction) of operating an integrative omni-channel business. The course helps students to develop skills to analyze a firm's omni-channel strategy and recommend solutions to help meet customers' needs. Further, students will learn different techniques and strategies on how to optimize the channel operations of a business.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:ITM 350 or RMG 200 or ITM 550
  • RMG 911 - Retail Sales Management
    Course DescriptionThis course is based on the importance of professionalism in sales people and effective selling that play a key role towards the delivery of exceptional customer service. Students will focus on building effective leadership skills and programs for selling and the development of relationships to increase productivity and customer loyalty.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 912 - Sustainability and Social Change
    Course DescriptionThis course examines sustainability, social change, the environment and governance through the retail lens of people, profit and the planet. The best practices of retailers particularly in the area of greening retail are a primary focus of study. Students engage in an industry-based project, as this is a critically important topic within the retail sector.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 913 - Retail Private Label
    Course DescriptionPrivate Label products have taken on an increasingly larger share of market within the retail product mix. For students interested in buying and merchandising, this course will examine the role of proprietary brand development across the spectrum of retail categories from hard goods and food to fashion and trend products. Curriculum will focus on best practice in private label and students will engage in a project on product development from concept to sourcing.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 914 - Sector Studies
    Course DescriptionEach year this course will take an in-depth look at one specific sector in the retail industry. Students may choose to study in up to 2 sectors such as grocery, fashion, sporting goods, pop-up retailing, luxury, health and wellness and shopping centres, to apply to their degree program. Looking at the Canadian retail market within a particular sector, within an international context of best practices, the course will examine performance of individual companies and the overall sector, as well as dominant issues that are unique to the sector. Integration of learning from the consumer, supply chain and operational perspectives will be emphasized.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 916 - Managing B2B Channels
    Course DescriptionThis course will explore how organizations leverage channels of distribution for value creation and competitive advantage. It delves into strategies that companies use to bring products and services from their point of origin to their point of consumption. Product proliferation, media fragmentation, retailer power and the internet have required excellence in channel design and management. The course will cover key concepts and strategies related to channel management, in light of traditional and new channels of distribution.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200 and MKT 100
  • RMG 917 - Experiential Learning - Travel Study
    Course DescriptionThis course examines consumption patterns, retail formats and operations, as well as sourcing opportunities and challenges in a defined region. Students will participate in experiential travel learning in a chosen country. Local industry experts will be invited to address various topics.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 918 - Retail IT - Case Study of Best Practices
    Course DescriptionToday, retail companies must invest in technology to manage their multiple locations and many transactions. Some retailers have emerged as leaders in their field by using technology to support a strategic initiative that differentiates them from their competition. In this course, students will study a few retailers in depth and analyze how they have used Information Technology to successfully differentiate from their competition.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 300
  • RMG 919 - Retail Data Analytics
    Course DescriptionRetail is detail. A retail company collects volumes of data: what was sold, what size, when, at what price, and by whom. But with so much data, it is difficult to 'see the big picture and generate actionable insights. In this course, students will use industry-leading tools to visualize data, understand trends, and make informed business decisions. Students will work with large data sets, gaining practical experience in how to find answers to complex business problems.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 920 - Running a Retail Business
    Course DescriptionThe success of retail organizations in an increasingly competitive environment is dependent upon their capacity for speed, flexibility and customer focus. This interactive course provides students with the basics of formulating and operating a retail business. They will integrate the principles of effective retail/service management and consider the implications of a dynamic retail ecosystem.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200
  • RMG 922 - Social Media Marketing
    Course DescriptionAn explosion in the popularity of social media sites has created a new level of consumer empowerment over even the most carefully managed brand messages. As the primary point of interaction in bringing products and services to the public, retailers are well positioned to carry customer relationships into this new online era. This course will focus on how and why retailers should "join the conversation" with consumers to build trust beyond the buzz associated with viral marketing and typical Internet campaigns. Students will analyze the market reach of popular online communities and tools, the legal and ethical implications, and the potential impact/integration of a multi-point communications strategy into the overall retail operation and marketing mix.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • RMG 925 - Leading in Retail Organizations
    Course DescriptionGiven the dynamic nature of the retail industry, leaders are required to develop productive and engaging organizations which are also primed for disruption and innovation. In this course, students develop customer focused organizational leadership strategies focused on innovative problem solving processes and organizational alignment. They also develop personal leadership skills oriented to the development of an engaged, productive workforce.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:RMG 200