What are the narrowest, widest, longest and shortest channel modes in marketing?

Channel width refers to the number of intermediaries of the same type used in each channel.

Wide channels: manufacturers use many similar middlemen, and their products are widely distributed in the market. The most extensive channel model is centralized distribution, that is, sales through as many suitable wholesalers and retailers as possible.

Narrow channels: manufacturers use less similar middlemen and narrow distribution channels. The narrowest channel model is exclusive distribution.

Channel length based on channel series refers to the number of sales intermediaries between producers and consumers.

The shortest channel mode is zero-order channel. From producers to consumers directly, without any marketing agency.

Long channels are generally three-level channels, namely wholesalers, agents and retailers. There are few long distribution channels, because from the manufacturer's point of view, the higher the number of channels, the more difficult it is to obtain end-user information and control propeller channels. The longest channel should be Japanese food distribution, which has reached level 6.