Indirect Distribution

This is the distribution from the manufacturer to the distributor, then to the retailer, and then to the consumer. The products have to pass through the supply chain before it gets to the consumers.

Direct Distribution

This is the distribution from the manufacturer straight to the consumer. This is the distribution line that requires that the manufacturer get retail units or direct orders are made by consumers to the manufacturers.

Intensive Distribution

This is a marketing strategyby which a company sells through as many outlets as possible. The products are distributed to different levels of retail outlets. This is to ensure that consumers get access to the product everywhere.

Selective Distribution

This lies and operates between intensive and exclusive distribution. Here, selected and few outlets are chosen for the distribution of products. This exclusive distribution operates by way of issuing rights to the few retailers who can stock and sell the product.

Exclusive Distribution

This works by way of selling via a retail outlet. Here, the product is sold exclusively by a store. This type of exclusive distribution happens with celebrity fashion line or products which are highly expensive. The retailer also only sells this brand and no other.

A Wholesaler or Distributor

The distributor gets the products from the manufacturer and uses its own logistics arrangement to get the products to retailers in the line. The distributor is an independent player and has connection with several manufacturers and retailers.

The Internet (Direct)

This is selling to consumers directly via the internet. Manufacturers advertise via the website, take orders, and ship to customers directly. This is used by fashion brands, health supplement manufacturers, and others. Consumers can even customize their products via this platform.

Catalogs (Indirect)

The catalog can be an illustrated book, CD, or video where products are advertised and customers can place orders on them. This is offline and the internet is not needed except if orders can be placed via email address.

Sales Team

This is probably the most used direct distribution method as salespersons are employed and trained to sell to consumers. These persons go to offices, door to door, and other places to make sales to consumers. These sellers work for a company.

The Value-Added Reseller

This is a seller that adds value to a third-party product.  It can be that the value-added reseller is adding new packaging, or adding a new fixture to the product. This reseller gets the product modified and sells to the final consumers.

Consultants

This is an expert who provides professional advice or services to people in business. They go over data and analyze it to give their clients advice. There are sales consultants who help assess the sales team and optimize it to be better and more productive.

Dealers

The dealer can get the product from a wholesaler or directly from the manufacturer. Automobile dealers are the most common in this group. They sell to retailers directly and they can be engaged to source for products.

Retailers

These are direct sellers to the consumers. They operate the convenience stores, the supermarkets, the food and drug stores, and other outlets where consumers get their products in unit.