N
The Global Insight

When would a manufacturer use direct distribution?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on February 09, 2026

Direct channels allow the customer to buy goods directly from the manufacturer, while an indirect channel moves the product through other distribution channels to get to the consumer. Firms that use direct distribution require their own logistics teams and transport vehicles.

Why do companies use distribution channels?

Distribution channels are important to businesses as they allow for the smooth delivery of goods or services to a customer. If a business does not source the best collection of businesses for this purpose, it can lead to unhappy customers and an inadequate provision of services.

Why is distribution important for a business?

Distribution serves as link between producers and consumers. Producers can make flow of information and messages to consumers about their products, price, promotion etc. through channel members. Similarly, they receive information about customers, competitors and environmental changes from channel members.

When would it be beneficial to use exclusive distribution?

Granting exclusive distribution enables companies to harbor control over promotion, service policies, intermediary’s price and several other factors. Additionally, thanks to exclusive distribution, companies benefit from aggressive selling from these outlets.

What is a downside to a direct distribution channel?

One of the biggest challenges is the sizeable costs that can come with direct distribution. For example, you may need to purchase trucks, hire drivers and rent storage space. You may also find it harder to reach potential customers without the network an established distributor provides.

What are the examples of exclusive distribution?

An example of exclusive distribution is Apple solely authorizing AT to be the distributor of the iPhone to end users….Some companies that often use exclusive distribution are:

  • Samsung.
  • Gucci.
  • Lamborghini.
  • Apple.
  • BMW.
  • Mercedes.

    When does a company use an exclusive distribution strategy?

    When the firm distributes its brand through just one or two major outlets in the market, who exclusively deal in it and not all competing brands, it is said that the firm is using an exclusive distribution strategy. This is a common form of distribution in products and brands that seek a high prestigious image.

    Which is the best description of the process of distribution?

    Distribution is the process of making a product or service available for the consumer or business user that needs it. This can be done directly by the producer or service provider, or using indirect channels with distributors or intermediaries.

    What do you need to know about distribution channels?

    Everything you need to know about the types of distribution channels. A manufacturer may plan to sell his/her products either directly or indirectly to the customers.

    What are the factors that influence distribution strategy?

    Distribution strategy in influenced by the market structure, the firm’s objectives. Its resources and of course it’s overall marketing strategy. All these factors are addressed in the section on selecting Distribution Channels.