Which distribution strategy typically involves a close retailer-consumer relationship?

Exclusive distribution is characterized by a close retailer-consumer relationship, as it involves granting a single retailer exclusive rights to sell a brand within a designated area. This approach allows for a focused marketing strategy where the retailer can provide personalized service, building a strong connection with consumers. It also enables the manufacturer to maintain better control over the brand’s positioning, pricing, and customer experience, fostering brand loyalty among consumers who appreciate the exclusivity of the product.

This strategy often leads to better understanding of the target market, allowing the retailer to tailor their offerings and customer engagement strategies effectively. By fostering a close relationship, the retailer can also gather valuable feedback from consumers, which can be used to adapt to market demands and enhance customer satisfaction.

In contrast, selective distribution and intensive distribution involve broader access to products, which can dilute the direct relationship with consumers. Bulk distribution, on the other hand, focuses more on large, quantity-based transactions rather than fostering relationships, making exclusive distribution the strategy most aligned with a close retailer-consumer connection.