ASSIGNMENT
The channel captain is the channel level with the most power in he Supply Chain and as such has a great deal of influence on distribution. How is an online member of the Supply Chain affected by this position? Support your answer.
1. A direct distribution channel eliminates the "middleman." How does this affect the functions of the Supply Chain both in a traditional sense and for online members?
2. According to the text, the advent of online auctions sites, such as eBay, offer an alternative pricing model to the fixed price model that is traditional in Western Society. These auction sites allow non-business participants (i.e. stay at home Moms) to operate a retail store online, where they purchase products at wholesale prices and offer them online to the highest bidder. Discuss the affect this practice has on the retail level of the Supply Chain. Support your position.