One intermediary: A retailer buys goods from producers to sell to consumers. Businesses tend to prefer this channel because it allows them to purchase large quantities of goods directly from the producer.
Producer → Intermediary 1 (Retailer) → Consumer
This type of channel is used often for selling new boats, trailers and automobiles, for example. Non-store retailers such as mail order companies most commonly use it too.
Note: Many retailers that once had mail-order components, no longer do so. Instead, they now include e-tail store fronts. This allows customers access to greater inventory. For example, rural Home hardware stores tend to be small, with limited stock. Customers, however, can select items online from a large supply center and have these items quickly delivered locally.
Some non-store retailers still have catalogue and online sales (e.g., L.L. Bean).
Note: Many retailers that once had mail-order components, no longer do so. Instead, they now include e-tail store fronts. This allows customers access to greater inventory. For example, rural Home hardware stores tend to be small, with limited stock. Customers, however, can select items online from a large supply center and have these items quickly delivered locally.
Some non-store retailers still have catalogue and online sales (e.g., L.L. Bean).