Final answer:
The advantage of a selective distribution strategy is that it helps maintain the brand's image, ensures better product differentiation, and enhances customer service by limiting the number of retail outlets. It does not inherently increase the availability of goods across various retailers.
option a is the correct
Step-by-step explanation:
An advantage of a selective distribution strategy is not that consumers are able to find a popular product at a wide variety of retailers; that is actually a misconception. A selective distribution strategy limits the number of outlets in a given area to maintain the brand’s image and control the market for better product differentiation and customer service.
Selective distribution involves a producer using a limited number of outlets in a geographic area to sell products. This strategy contrasts with intensive distribution where a product is stocked in many outlets. Selective distribution is beneficial because it allows producers to select retailers that best match the product’s positioning and maintain a certain level of prestige or exclusivity. This can create a stronger brand image and allows for retailers to provide better service due to higher product knowledge and a closer brand-retailer relationship.
Moreover, with selective distribution, consumers might benefit as businesses may compete on aspects beyond price, such as customer service, product knowledge, and overall shopping experience. This could lead to consumers enjoying a better overall quality of service and more personalized shopping experiences. However, it does not increase the availability of goods across a large number of retailers, which is often a feature of an intensive distribution strategy.