The Distributive System

The Distributive System is a guide to the distribution system of the British economy, including those methods employed by retailers, dealers, and wholesalers. The book traces the history of the distribution system in Britain and its development from the 19th century. The text explains the supply and demand sides of a growing economy, which affected particular methods of distribution of products. The rise of department stores, co-operatives, variety chain stores, and the independent retailers are taken into account. The author notes the changing role of the wholesaler, as an adjunct to the distribution process to becoming a multi-tiered player. The book also addresses the rises of mail order trading, automatic vending machines, discount houses, and direct selling. Of interest is direct selling because this arises when manufacturers realized the high profit margin made by the retailers. The author explains the employment of the door to door salesman, direct selling to the end user by advertising, and linkages/joint ventures in selling. The book then explains consumer protection, the accompanying legislation, the relationship between price and quality, and the rise of consumer associations and publications such as Shopper's Guide. The book then discusses the future of the distribution system in the light of international stores and of the European Economic Community. This book will prove valuable for businessmen, manufacturers, distributors, government commercial attaches, and for people engaged in international trading.