This document discusses various channel formats including retail, wholesale, franchising, and export distribution channels. It defines retailing as the sale of goods and services to ultimate consumers, while wholesaling refers to sales primarily to other businesses rather than consumers. Franchising allows separately owned franchisees to market under the franchisor's brand using their systems and methods. Export distribution channels involve independent export intermediaries who help manufacturers sell abroad by training foreign customers. Online reverse auctions reverse the roles of buyers and sellers to drive purchase prices downward.