some examples of chain (ideal world) manufacturer --> distributor --> wholesaler --> retailer --> customer (common

chain) manufacturer --> distributor/wholesaler --> retailer --> customer (large buying power retailer ie. tesco may source some products this way) manufacturer --> retailer --> customer (online trader trends) manufacturer --> distributor --> wholesaler --> wholesaler 2 --> wholesaler 3 --> wholesaler 4 --> wholesaler 5 --> retailer --> customer