Oklahoma has been a state where agriculture has been a major mainstay of the economy. Though oil was discovered in the early 20^thcentury and quite a population turned to it. However, agriculture has continued to take its place in the state.

Those who understand the economic development of the state of Oklahoma will know it to have many of its companies tied to food processing and much of the food manufacturing is done outside the state. We have more companies in the state involved in the manufacturing of cars, airplane engines, and many other types of machinery.

With a population of about 4 million people, there is a fairly large market base in Oklahoma. Though the state ranks 28^thin the population density list, it, however, has a market that is still quite satisfactory for retailers and retail distributors.

The retail trade is one that connects directly to the consumers. It is the trade that lays emphasis on how to get the consumer to get the product from a particular retailer and to establish a relationship with that retailer. However, a retailer, most times, does not get the goods directly from the manufacturers or get the goods produced herself. There is the existence of the retail distributor in the supply chain.

Retail distributors are essential links in the supply chain. When manufacturers produce their products, they need distribution for the product. There are several situations where the manufacturer does the distribution to retailers. This is direct store delivery. However, not all manufacturers have the capacity to do their own distribution to retail outlets. For instance, a new brand still seeking market recognition does not have a name in the market and will need to be significantly promoted and pushed. A retail distributor can do a better job of getting the product to several hundred or even thousands of stores.

With about 19% of the working population in the state of Oklahoma into retail and wholesale trade, there is an impressive amount working in the supply chain. However, there is more to the supply chain than the number involved. There are general goods everyone is interested in but there are specialized products like adult goods, sports goods, smoking goods, and some others.

There are established retail distributors in the state of Oklahoma. A and B Wholesale Market is a retail distributor that projects itself as being constantly in tune with the ever-dynamic retail trade environment.

Petra Industries is another retail distributor in the line of electronics products. The distributor also does some form of brokerage by connecting electronic accessories brands with retail partners.

Davenport Enterprises is a retail distributor that sells to gist shops, boutiques, jewelry stores, show vendors, flea market dealers, and several other merchants.

Trade associations are very helpful for networking, getting more knowledge on several factors, and being part of a united front on an issue. The Associated Wholesale Grocers Oklahoma City Division is one of these trade associations and it brings together grocers throughout the city.