Chapter 1.1

Definition of Retailing

Retailing is the process of selling goods and services directly to consumers for personal or family use. It includes activities that add value to products and services.

Scope of Retailing

Retailing encompasses both physical and online sales. Examples include purchasing in-store (e.g., Uniqlo) or online, and also non-store methods like door-to-door sales or vending machines. Services also fall under retailing, such as hotel stays or medical consultations.

Role of Retailers

Retailers are vital in the supply chain, acting as intermediaries between manufacturers and consumers. They acquire products from wholesalers or manufacturers and sell them directly to consumers.

Types of Marketplaces

• B2C (Business to Consumer): Businesses sell directly to consumers (e.g., a fashion brand selling clothes in a store).

• B2B (Business to Business): Businesses sell products/services to other businesses (e.g., a caterer for a company event).

• C2C (Consumer to Consumer): Consumers sell to other consumers (e.g., a collector selling toys on a platform like Carousell).