Retailers are businesses or entities that sell products or services directly to consumers for their personal use or consumption. They act as intermediaries between wholesalers or manufacturers and the end consumers. Retailers purchase goods in bulk from wholesalers or manufacturers and then make these products available to the general public through physical stores, online platforms, or other distribution channels.
In the context of wholesalers, retailers are their customers. Wholesalers typically sell products in large quantities at lower prices to retailers, who, in turn, sell these products to individual consumers in smaller quantities and at higher prices. Retailers play a crucial role in the supply chain by providing consumers with convenient access to a wide range of products and services, offering them a place to browse, make purchasing decisions, and receive customer support.
Retailers can take various forms, including brick-and-mortar stores, e-commerce websites, pop-up shops, catalog companies, and more. They serve as a link between producers and consumers, adding value through marketing, merchandising, customer service, and the convenience of local or online shopping options.