(a) What is the normal chain of distribution? (2 marks) (b) State any three functions of middlemen in the chain of distribution. (6 marks) (c) Highlight any...

(a) The normal chain of distribution. This is the usual channel or route through which goods pass from the producer to the final consumer. In its full form it runs: producer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer.

(b) Three functions of middlemen in the chain of distribution.

• Breaking bulk. Wholesalers buy in large quantities from producers and sell in smaller quantities to retailers, and retailers sell in still smaller units to consumers.
• Storage (warehousing). Middlemen hold stocks of goods, bridging the time gap between production and consumption and ensuring steady supply.
• Transportation. They move goods from producing areas to where consumers are, bridging the place gap.
• Provision of finance and credit. Middlemen pay producers and may extend credit to buyers, easing the flow of goods.
• Provision of information. They pass market information between producers and consumers about tastes, prices, and demand.

(c) Four problems in the distribution of goods in West Africa.

• Poor transport and infrastructure. Bad roads and inadequate railways make the movement of goods slow and costly.
• Inadequate storage facilities. Lack of warehouses and cold storage causes spoilage, especially of perishable produce.
• Too many middlemen. A long chain of intermediaries raises the final price to consumers.
• Poor communication and market information. Producers and traders often lack accurate information on prices and demand.
• Shortage of finance/credit. Distributors may lack capital to hold and move stock efficiently.
• Insecurity and multiple checkpoints. Theft and unofficial levies on the road raise costs and delay delivery.

Examination takeaway. Note the mark weighting: part (c) carries 12 marks for four points, so each distribution problem should be named and briefly explained rather than merely listed.