Retailer
A retailerA person or company that sells goods to the public sells goods to consumerIn business, a consumer is a person who uses a product and may also buy it. often in smaller quantities than a wholesalerA business that buys products in bulk from the producer, who then sells smaller quantities to retailers and/or consumers..
Costs | Benefits |
Manufacturer will lose some profit to the retailer | Convenience 鈥 retailers are located close to customers |
Products in retailers are often displayed next to the competition | The retailer displays and markets the goods for the manufacturer and offers after sales service |
Manufacturer loses control of how the product is sold and marketed | Retailers can provide customers with information about the product |
Costs | Manufacturer will lose some profit to the retailer |
---|---|
Benefits | Convenience 鈥 retailers are located close to customers |
Costs | Products in retailers are often displayed next to the competition |
---|---|
Benefits | The retailer displays and markets the goods for the manufacturer and offers after sales service |
Costs | Manufacturer loses control of how the product is sold and marketed |
---|---|
Benefits | Retailers can provide customers with information about the product |
There are many different types of retailerA person or company that sells goods to the public that sell to consumers:
- independent stores
- supermarkets
- department stores
- discount stores
Independent stores
Independent stores are small retail businesses set up by individuals or small groups of partners. Common examples of independent stores include:
- gift shops
- newsagents
- convenience stores
Independent stores often offer unique items at higher prices than larger stores.
Supermarkets
Supermarkets offer a wide range of products ranging from groceries to clothing. Some supermarkets are now open 24 hours a day and all products are located on the same premises. This makes supermarkets a convenient method of shopping for consumers.
Department stores
Department stores, for example Debenhams and John Lewis, are often sited in prime locations such as city centres or large shopping centres. Department stores stock a large variety of goods under one roof making it easier for shoppers to find a range of products.
However with the rise of online retailers such as Amazon, department stores are finding it hard to compete on price due to large rental costs. This means goods are often more expensive in department stores.
Discount stores
Discount stores such as Poundland and Home Bargains sell products at the cheapest possible price. This attracts customers into the store but often discount stores have a limited amount of product choice.