Zwischenhändlers

Zwischenhändler, often translated as intermediary or middleman, refers to an individual or entity that facilitates the exchange of goods or services between two parties. They are not the original producer nor the final consumer but play a crucial role in the supply chain. This can include wholesalers, retailers, brokers, agents, and distributors. Their primary function is to bridge the gap between producers who may have large quantities of goods and consumers who require smaller amounts, or to connect buyers and sellers who might otherwise have difficulty finding each other.

Intermediaries add value by performing various functions. These can include breaking bulk, assortment, transportation, storage, financing, and risk-bearing. For example, a wholesaler buys large quantities from a manufacturer and sells smaller quantities to multiple retailers. A retailer then sells individual items to the end consumer. Brokers and agents often facilitate transactions without taking ownership of the goods themselves, earning a commission for their services.

The existence of Zwischenhändler can lead to greater market efficiency by reducing transaction costs and expanding market reach. However, their involvement also increases the price of goods as each intermediary adds their own margin. In some cases, direct selling from producers to consumers (disintermediation) can occur, particularly with the rise of e-commerce, bypassing traditional intermediaries. The specific role and necessity of Zwischenhändler vary greatly depending on the industry, product, and market dynamics.