The marketing function that involves determining where products will be sold is called distribution or channel management. Distribution, also known as "place" in the marketing mix, refers to the process of making a product available to customers by selecting and managing the appropriate channels through which the product travels from the manufacturer to the end consumer. This includes deciding physical or online retail locations, wholesalers, distributors, or direct sales options to ensure the product is accessible to the target market at the right time and place. Channel management specifically focuses on identifying, selecting, monitoring, and evaluating these sales channels to optimize product availability.
In summary:
- The distribution function ensures products reach consumers effectively.
- Channel management is the responsibility of determining where products are sold and managing those pathways.
- This function is key to meeting customer demand and achieving business goals.
