Many large retailers such as Target and Home Depot are finding that because of their size they can deal directly with producers and take care of ordering, delivery, and handling of goods rather than using an independent wholesaler. They are able to do so because
a. they have merged with wholesalers and absorbed their operations into their retail operations.
b. they are performing the functions normally performed by independent wholesalers.
c. they have been able to eliminate many of the functions performed by wholesalers.
d. the functions performed by independent wholesalers are not needed for large retailers.
e. the retailers have begun producing the products themselves and no longer need wholesalers.
Answer: b. they are performing the functions normally performed by independent wholesalers.