Handelskataloger

Handelskataloger, or trade catalogs, are publications produced by wholesalers, manufacturers, or distributors to present products and services to business customers. They serve as sales and procurement tools, enabling buyers to compare offerings, request quotations, place orders, and plan purchases. Typical content includes product names and SKUs, descriptions and specifications, dimensions and materials, photographs or illustrations, pricing, stock status, minimum order quantities, and details on delivery, payment terms, and ordering procedures.

Historically, handelskataloger emerged in Europe during the early modern period as printed lists used by merchants to promote goods to retailers. They evolved from single-brand or single-supplier leaflets into multi-brand catalogs that could cover broader assortments. With the rise of digital technology in the late 20th century, many catalogs were converted to online formats or integrated into procurement platforms, and today several catalogs are maintained as data-driven catalogs with structured product data and dynamic pricing.

Catalogs vary in scope and structure. General handelskataloger may offer a wide range of products across categories, while specialty catalogs focus on a particular industry or product line. They may be regional or international in scope. Printed catalogs coexist with digital versions, interactive online catalogs, and downloadable PDFs. Modern catalogs often feature advanced search, category filters, image zoom, comparison tools, and machine-readable data feeds for procurement systems and marketplaces.

Significance and trends include the ongoing digitization of B2B trade, standardization of product data, and improved integration with enterprise resource planning and e-procurement systems. Standards such as GS1 and various XML or JSON formats enable interoperability between suppliers, distributors, and customers. Environmental and logistical considerations are increasingly reflected in catalog design, with emphasis on accurate information, transparency, and sustainable sourcing.