Jobber is a term commonly used in business, particularly in the context of the buying and selling of goods. The phonetic transcription of the word can be written as /ˈdʒɒbə/ with the stress on the first syllable. The word is spelled with a "j" instead of a "g" due to its origin in Middle English, where "j" was used in place of "i" before a vowel. Despite some regional variations, the spelling of the term remains consistent across most English-speaking countries.
A jobber is a term primarily used in the context of business and commerce. It refers to an individual or a company that operates as an intermediary between manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. The jobber purchases goods or products in bulk from manufacturers or wholesalers at discounted prices and then sells these items to retailers, often at a higher price to generate a profit.
The role of a jobber is to streamline the flow of goods between the different stages of the supply chain, aiding in the distribution process. They often specialize in a particular industry or product category, allowing them to have expertise and knowledge in that specific area. Jobbers play a crucial role in establishing efficiency in the marketplace by facilitating the movement of goods from the production line to the end consumer.
Jobbers often take on the risks associated with storing the inventory, as they maintain significant stocks of goods to quickly meet the demands of retailers. They may also offer additional services such as packaging, labeling, or customization to meet the specific requirements of retailers or end consumers.
The term "jobber" can also be used in other contexts, such as in the financial world, where it refers to a securities dealer who buys and sells stocks or shares on their own account. However, the most common usage of the term relates to its description as a middleman or intermediary within the realm of business and commerce.
A person who undertakes to perform small pieces of work; a dealer on the Stock Exchange who is the intermediate agent between the stockbroker and the public; a petty dealer in cattle, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "jobber" has a rather complex etymology and has undergone various shifts in meaning over time.
Originally, during the Middle Ages, "jobber" referred to a person who did piecework or odd jobs. This sense was derived from the term "job" itself, which originally meant a lump or piece of work.
Later, in the early 18th century, "jobber" took on a new meaning as a noun referring to a middleman or wholesaler in trade. This usage likely originates from the verb "to job", meaning to buy goods and resell them for profit.
By the mid-19th century, "jobber" started being used in a different context within the realm of wrestling. It referred to a wrestler whose primary role was to lose matches in order to enhance the reputation of the victor.