This document discusses distribution channels in marketing management. It defines a distribution channel as the chain of businesses that pass a good from production to the final consumer. Distribution channels can include wholesalers, retailers, distributors, and the internet. The document then describes the functions of distribution channels, different types of channels including direct, indirect and hybrid, and considerations for designing an effective distribution channel such as analyzing customer needs and constraints. It also discusses channel management, vertical and horizontal marketing systems, wholesaling vs retailing, and e-tailing or electronic retailing.