ABSTRACT
Before attempting any critical examination of the way in which retail distribution in this country to-day is performing its economic function in providing a link between the producer and consumer, it is important to get a clear idea of the existing structure. Although the essential function remains the same, different types of distributive organisation have in course of time been developed within that framework, and these attack the problem in various ways. Each has a peculiar technique of its own, and it is well that the object which each is striving to attain should be clearly grasped; for criticisms which may properly be directed against one do not necessarily apply to the rest, and while it may be thought that retail distribution as a whole is in some respects wasteful and extravagant, there will be found within its compass one or more different types of organisation which are undoubtedly doing an excellent job.
