Vendor selection in retail supply chain management is a systematic process that ensures the right suppliers are chosen to meet organizational goals related to cost, quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. The process typically begins with identifying requirements such as product specifications, quantity, delivery timelines, and service expectations. This is followed by market research to identify potential vendors, issuing requests for quotations or proposals, and evaluating responses based on predefined criteria. Shortlisted vendors are then assessed through negotiations, sample testing, financial analysis, and reference checks. Finally, the selected vendor is onboarded, contracts are signed, and performance monitoring systems are established to ensure ongoing compliance with expectations. In retail, vendor selection is crucial because it directly impacts product availability, pricing strategies, inventory turnover, and overall customer experience. Retail managers must carefully evaluate vendors not only on immediate benefits but also on their ability to support long-term business growth and adaptability in a dynamic market environment. When selecting a long-term strategic partner, a retail manager should prioritize criteria that go beyond basic transactional efficiency. Reliability and consistency in supply are critical, as stockouts can