Wholesaler, Supplier, Distributor and Reseller

[KerryK]

Can someone tell me if Wholesaler, Supplier, Distributor and Reseller are all essentially the same thing? If not, what the differences are between them?

Thanks,
Kerry

 

[Whistle Ink]

Hi,

In my experience wholesaler/ distributor are the ones that have negotiated with brands/manufacturers and may have exclusive agreements to supply resellers. Most manufactrers will only supply through wholesalers/distributors. They only sell to trade (resellers/businesses).

One may also call these suppliers.

Resellers usually buy from wholsalers and sell to end users - the people going to use the product. There are some resellers who think they are wholesalers!

One may also call these distributors.

 

[KerryK]

OK this clears it up for me. Thanks for the answer!