QUESTION 1
20 MARKS
A wide variety of sources is available to help a marketing channel manager find prospective
channel members.
Explain any FIVE (5) sources that a marketing channel manager can use to identify channel
members of which the organisation can form a strategic partnership with. Give a practical example
to support your answer in each case
QUESTION 2
20 MARKS
Rosenbloom (2014) argues that whether or not the firm views distribution worthy of top
management concern when developing overall objectives and strategies, it must still deal with
the issue of the role of distribution in the marketing mix. The aforementioned author further
points that yet, even if we acknowledge the wide range of variables in the marketing mix which
any given firm choose for strategic emphasis, a general case for stressing distribution strategy can
still be made if certain conditions prevail in the market or within the industry.
Critically discuss FOUR (4) of these conditions that may warrant a case for stressing distribution
strategy.
QUESTION 3
20 MARKS
Rosenbloom (2014) argues that for technical products sold in the industrial market,
manufacturers should select distributors who carry a small rather than large array of products.
The aforementioned author further argues that with a smaller, rather than a larger array of
products carried, more attention will be paid to a particular manufacturer's product. This author
believes that the financial capacity of the potential channel member should not be
overemphasized because sometimes less financed firms are "hungrier" and more aggressive.
As a channel design manager, critically discuss the factors or criteria that a firm should take into
consideration when selecting a channel member.