International Distribution and Retailing
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Questions and Answers

What characterizes an import-oriented distribution structure?

  • Offers direct access from producers to end users.
  • It facilitates global distribution networks.
  • Supplies are abundant and prices are low.
  • A limited supply of goods is sold at high prices. (correct)
  • In which distribution structure does demand exceed supply?

  • National distribution system
  • Import-oriented distribution structure (correct)
  • Retail-centric distribution structure
  • Japanese distribution structure
  • What is a typical feature of the Japanese distribution structure?

  • Direct transactions without middlemen.
  • Dominated by large retailers and distributors.
  • Many small middlemen dealing with many small retailers. (correct)
  • Control of the channel by a small number of importers.
  • What role do middlemen play in the distribution process?

    <p>They facilitate buying and selling negotiations among all parties. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding the import-oriented distribution structure?

    <p>Distribution systems tend to be local rather than national. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant feature of the business philosophy in Japan regarding retailer relationships?

    <p>Emphasis on loyalty and long-term relationships (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the impact of the Large-Scale Retail Store Law (Daitenho) in Japan?

    <p>Restricts the opening of stores larger than 500 square meters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do consumer goods typically reach the consumer in Japan?

    <p>Through a high density of middlemen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements reflects a characteristic of Japanese consumer goods pricing?

    <p>They are among the highest in the world (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one method employed by companies like Coca-Cola for inventory financing in Japan?

    <p>They receive cumulative rebates for loyalty (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of agent middlemen?

    <p>They represent the principal rather than themselves. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes logistics management?

    <p>A total system’s approach to managing the distribution process. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option is NOT a part of channel management?

    <p>Financing middlemen. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Large-Scale Retail Store Location Act pertain to?

    <p>Judging proposals by MITI. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a benefit of the European Union’s unification?

    <p>Elimination of transportation barriers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of merchant middlemen?

    <p>They take title to the goods and sell on their own account. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the aim of examining logistics costs systematically?

    <p>To find the optimum (lowest) system cost with respect to customer service. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of distribution, what does 'breaking-bulk' refer to?

    <p>Dividing large quantities into smaller, more manageable amounts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Distribution Process

    The process through which goods move from producers to end consumers, involving handling, ownership transfers, and negotiations between producers, middlemen, and customers.

    Distribution Structure

    A specific arrangement of producers, wholesalers, retailers, and other intermediaries involved in distributing products within a particular country.

    Import-Oriented Distribution Structure

    A distribution structure where importers control limited goods, selling them at high prices to a small affluent customer base. Demand exceeds supply, and distribution is largely local.

    Japanese Distribution Structure

    A distribution structure characterized by many small middlemen dealing with numerous small retailers. Manufacturers have significant channel control due to vertical integration, and the system reflects a unique cultural philosophy.

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    Large-Scale Retail Store Law (Daitenho)

    A law designed to protect small, independent retailers by limiting the growth and expansion of larger retail stores. It restricts the opening of large stores exceeding 500 square meters, late-night operations, and changes in operating days. This law aims to preserve the traditional Japanese retail landscape and ensure the survival of independent businesses.

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    High Density of Middlemen

    The Japanese distribution channel often involves multiple intermediaries (middlemen) between the manufacturer and the consumer. This can include wholesalers, distributors, and retailers. The presence of numerous middlemen contributes to a high density of small independent shops and may impact the final price for consumers.

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    Japanese Business Philosophy

    Japanese business practices emphasize close relationships, loyalty, and long-term partnerships between suppliers and dealers. This focus on harmony and mutual support often extends beyond financial transactions to encompass shared values and cultural ties.

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    Channel Control

    Japanese distribution channels often involve strategies like inventory financing (delayed payments), cumulative rebates (rewards for loyalty and volume), merchandise returns (flexible policies), and promotional support (assistance for marketing). These methods are used to maintain strong relationships and control within the channel.

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    High Cost of Consumer Goods

    The Japanese distribution system often results in higher consumer goods prices compared to other countries. This can be attributed to factors like the high density of middlemen, the long-term relationship emphasis, and the protective laws in place. These factors contribute to a more complex and localized supply chain.

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    Agent Middleman

    A type of middleman who represents the principal (seller) and acts on their behalf, not their own.

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    Merchant Middleman

    A type of middleman who takes title to the goods, meaning they buy and sell on their own account, not the seller's.

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    Channel Management

    The process of locating, selecting, motivating, terminating, and controlling middlemen to effectively distribute products to the target market.

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    Logistics Management

    The systematic approach to managing the physical movement of raw materials, in-process inventory, and finished goods from the point of origin to the point of consumption.

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    Physical Distribution

    The concept of minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency in the physical distribution system, while meeting customer service objectives.

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    Total Physical Distribution Costs

    The strategy of finding the most cost-effective and efficient way to distribute products, considering factors like transportation, warehousing, and inventory management.

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    Elimination of Transportation Barriers

    The removal of transportation barriers between member countries, allowing for smoother movement of goods and services within the economic area.

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    Logistics Cost Analysis

    The systematic examination of logistics costs and the calculation of total physical distribution costs to identify potential savings and optimize efficiency.

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    Study Notes

    International Distribution and Retailing

    • International distribution involves the entire process of moving goods from producer to consumer across international borders.
    • This process includes physical handling, ownership transfer, and negotiations between producers, middlemen, and consumers.
    • Each country possesses a unique distribution structure, affecting how goods reach consumers.
    • Distribution structures vary based on countries.
    • Different distribution systems exist, like the import-oriented structure.

    Import-Oriented Distribution Structure

    • This traditional structure is characterized by a single importer controlling a fixed quantity of goods.
    • Marketing strategies focus on selling limited stocks to high-value customers at high prices.
    • There is a significant demand-supply imbalance, where customer demand often exceeds limited supply.
    • Distribution systems tend to be local rather than national.
    • Fewer countries today operate within this model.

    Japanese Distribution Structure

    • This system has numerous small middlemen that work with numerous small retailers.
    • Manufacturers exert significant control over the distribution network, often attributed to vertical integration.
    • Unique cultural values influence business philosophies.
    • Laws limit the proliferation of large-scale retail stores, thereby supporting small retailers.

    High Density of Middlemen

    • In Japan, goods often pass through several intermediaries before reaching customers, unlike Western markets which favor large-scale retailers.
    • Independent groceries and bakers represent a considerable segment of Japanese retail (94.7%).
    • Supermarkets, discount stores, and department stores dominate Western markets.

    Channel Control

    • Inventory financing, often seen in six-month payment cycles for companies like Coca-Cola in Japan, influences channel control.
    • Cumulative rebates incentivize retailer loyalty, and cooperation.
    • Other channel control tactics encompass merchandise returns and promotional support.

    Business Philosophy

    • Japanese distribution systems emphasize long-term dealer-supplier relationships, rooted in loyalty, harmony and friendship.
    • This approach results in lower prices to the small retailer, a considerable advantage compared to broader development of large retailers.
    • Due to the emphasis on loyalty, Japanese consumer goods are often priced high worldwide.

    Large-Scale Retail Store Law and its Successor

    • The Daitenho law regulates the opening of retail stores exceeding 500 square meters, limiting their operating hours, and changing their operating day standards.
    • The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) initially approves proposals related to larger retail.
    • Foreign and domestic companies were bound by the law.
    • The Large-Scale Retail Store Location Act of 2000 succeeded it.

    Alternative Middleman Choices

    • Sellers must exert influence over middlemen in both the home country and the foreign country.
    • Agent middlemen represent principals, while merchant middlemen take title to the goods and operate independently.

    Channel Management

    • Essential aspects of channel management include locating, selecting, motivating, terminating, and controlling middlemen.

    Logistics

    • Logistics management involves a comprehensive approach to managing the entire distribution process.
    • Physical movement of raw materials, work in progress (WIP inventory), and finished goods encompass the distribution process from production to end user consumption.
    • This includes warehousing, transportation, inventory management, distribution plant location, and breaking bulk for lower volume delivery.

    Logistics, Continued

    • Systematic planning of logistics and calculation of distribution costs can offer significant savings.
    • The goal is to achieve optimal system costs, balancing costs with customer satisfaction and efficiency, particularly important when considering the logistics aspects of distribution.
    • The European Union has eliminated many trade barriers due to its unification, facilitating the smooth delivery of goods among member countries.

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    Description

    Explore the complexities of international distribution and retailing in this quiz. Learn about different distribution structures, particularly the import-oriented model, and how they affect the flow of goods from producers to consumers. Understand the factors that influence distribution strategies in various countries.

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