Learning Outcomes
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
- 1 Explain the impact of growing competition and global dynamics.
- 2 Discuss the complexity of regulatory requirements.
- 3 Discuss the challenges of technology evolution.
Growing Competition
Prior to 2019, most of us did not give much thought to the supply chain or its channel members. We went to the store and were welcomed with endless aisles of the products we were used to purchasing. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the entire country became more in tune with channel members. Wholesalers were not unaffected by the disruption that the pandemic caused channel members, and new trends are on the horizon for wholesalers. Let’s take a look at these recent trends that affect wholesaling.
Wholesalers are a central link in the economy and supply chain. The industry is facing tough competition with new as well as nontraditional wholesalers entering the market. Just as consumers are demanding more convenient shopping experiences and increased value in products and services, retailers are demanding the same from their intermediaries. Wholesalers must find innovative and competitive business models to compete.
The Impact of Global Dynamics on the Supply Chain
Globalization has been integrating global markets for the past several decades. And supply chains have had to adjust to keep up with these changes. With products available from around the world at lower costs and retailers demanding faster deliveries, many wholesalers have expanded their operations in response to the rise of the global economy. This comes with its own set of challenges, such as an expanded sales force and the need to understand other economies, cultures, and languages.
More recently, it has become apparent in the United States and around the world that supply chain participants were not prepared for disruptions such as those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortages of workers, products, containers, and long-haul truck drivers have proven to the industry that some major changes need to occur.
Regulatory Requirements and Complexity
With advancements in technology (and the need for consumer security) as well as the growing global economy, regulatory requirements also increase—and become more complex. Wholesalers must understand such requirements in order to conduct business legally. For example, wholesalers need a special license to distribute restricted goods, such as alcohol, controlled drugs, firearms, and pesticides. Depending on the type of transportation mode being used—such as tractor-trailers hauling containers—special licensing may need to be obtained.
Wholesalers also have a large responsibility when it comes to disposing of waste. More specific government regulations in regard to wholesalers include the Sale of Goods Act, which requires goods sold to be safe and include clear directions.41 The government has also enacted various rules to protect consumers and to be able to trace products.
Consumer Protection
Caveat emptor (Latin for “let the buyer beware”) was a long-standing motto in commercial transactions, one that implies the buyer purchases at their own risk. However, consumer protection laws are now woven into the fabric of the economy. Regulations help keep sellers honest and consumers protected. In general, consumer protection regulations exist to prevent unethical or dangerous business practices throughout the distribution channel. These practices range from false advertising to predatory lending to scams and frauds.42 Some of these will be discussed later in the chapter.
Product Traceability
Product traceability refers to the ability to track all processes for a product, from the procurement of raw materials to production, consumption, and disposal. Increasing numbers of consumers want to know exactly where their products are coming from and whether they are ethically sourced.43 Aside from consumer demand, it is a crucial part of the distribution channel as product recalls become more common.
For example, on January 6, 2022, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a recall of over 25,000 pounds of ground beef.44 Because of product traceability, the specific ground beef under the recall was able to be traced to a specific location, production date, and lot. Without product traceability, there may have been no way of knowing where the ground beef came from, forcing consumers to discard purchases of product that was not tainted. Additionally, product traceability helps combat counterfeit products by finding the originating source.
Link to Learning
Traceability Standards
The GS1 Global Traceability Standard defines what is minimally acceptable for full supply chain traceability. It establishes a full system that traces products end to end. Read more about the standards and see how it’s applied to food.
Challenges of Technology Evolution
The advancement and increased use of technology has brought about both challenges and opportunities for wholesalers. Product traceability has become increasingly easier, for example. Orders are easier to make and track. However, technology is expensive and comes with a learning curve for new users. The increased demand of consumers and retail customers requires wholesalers to keep up with technological advancements to stay competitive.
Knowledge Check
It’s time to check your knowledge on the concepts presented in this section. Refer to the Answer Key at the end of the book for feedback.