A service wholesaler that carries a wide variety of nonperishable items such as hardware, electrical supplies, furniture, drugs, etc., is called a
A. single-line wholesaler
B. general merchandise wholesaler
C. specialty wholesaler
D. rack jobber
E. limited-function wholesaler
Answer: (B) General merchandise wholesalers originally developed to serve the early retailers such as general stores, which carry a wide variety of nonperishable items. Single-line wholesalers (A) carry a narrower line of merchandise than general merchandise wholesalers. Specialty wholesalers (C) carry an even more narrow range of products and offer more information and services than other types of service wholesalers. Rack jobbers (D) specialize in nonfood products sold through grocery stores and supermarkets, often displayed on wire racks owned by the rack jobber. Limited function wholesalers (E) provide only limited wholesaling functions.