Who are the channel members in a distribution system?

In a distribution system, channel members refer to the various stakeholders involved in the process of moving products from manufacturers to end consumers. This includes manufacturers, who create the products; wholesalers, who typically buy large quantities from manufacturers and distribute smaller quantities to retailers; and retailers, who are the final link in the chain selling goods directly to consumers.

Recognizing that each of these players fulfills a distinct role helps illustrate how products reach the marketplace. Manufacturers ensure production capacity, wholesalers facilitate broader distribution, and retailers provide the final sales interface to the consumer. This framework is crucial for understanding how goods flow through the supply chain and how each member contributes value to that process. Other options do not encompass the full array of participants in the distribution system, thus making this choice the most comprehensive and accurate.