S6 E3: From Fashion to Fencing with Rebecca Thompson, Category Manager for Jewsons

In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Thompson, an experienced Product Category Manager at Jewsons, who has built an impressive career spanning fashion, sports retail, appliances, and now building products. Rebecca’s journey is a fascinating example of how skills in buying and category management can transfer across industries - even from trend-led fashion accessories to long-lifecycle hard goods like composite decking, cladding, and fencing.Rebecca reflects on her early years working with big names like New Look and Sports Direct, where the buying process was fast-paced, heavily trend-driven, and all about quick reactions. At Eurocell, she owned outdoor living categories in a business that evolved from a manufacturer into both a retail and trade powerhouse. She talks us through the rapid growth the company has experienced - especially during the COVID-19 pandemic - and the importance of adapting quickly to changing customer journeys and the rise of e-commerce. We also explore how her role demands deep product knowledge and ongoing technical training. Rebecca emphasizes that in hard goods, credibility comes not just from sales strategy, but from being able to advise customers with confidence. Trade shows and industry events play a big role here, offering both inspiration and networking opportunities.A particularly engaging part of our conversation focuses on gender dynamics in the retail and trade industries. Rebecca shares her perspective on the increasing visibility and influence of women in spaces that have traditionally been male-dominated, noting, “Women are increasingly shaping the customer journey in trade and DIY sectors.” She believes this shift is reshaping how businesses think about service, communication, and product ranges.Sustainability is another recurring theme. Rebecca highlights how the industry is moving toward more thoughtful decision-making. “Sustainability and quality are becoming more important in both fashion and hard goods,” she explains, pointing out that buyers now have to consider not just trends but also the long-term impact and environmental footprint of their categories.Whether you’re in fashion, DIY, or any other sector, Rebecca’s story demonstrates that every product category has its own challenges and excitement - and that embracing change, focusing on customers, and building transferable skills are the keys to a lasting career in buying and category management.3 Key Takeaways:Career skills in buying and category management are highly transferable across industries, from trend-led fashion to long-lifecycle hard goods.Building customer trust—especially in high-value purchases—requires deep product knowledge, adaptability, and clear communication.Sustainability, diversity, and changing customer journeys are reshaping both fashion and hard goods, making these areas more exciting than ever.Sponsors:Boho Betty: www.boho-betty.co.ukDiscount code: BYB10 (offer ends 3rd October)Wholesale site: www.boho-betty-wholesale.myshopify.com  For buying support email us at [email protected] the showIf you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! It honestly really helps to keep this going and growing!Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email [email protected] also have a retail buyers membership @jointhebuyersclub  Find out more at www.jointhebuyersclub.co.ukIf you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support