---
title: What Are Examples of Distribution Channels?
description: 🔵 What Are Examples of Distribution Channels? Examples of distribution channels include direct online sales (brand websites), retail stores, wholesalers, distributors, e-commerce marketplaces, franchise networks, and direct sales representatives.
url: https://flawlessmlm.com/en/faq/what-are-examples-of-distribution-channels
last_updated: '2026-08-12'
language: en
type: faq
keywords: ''
published_date: '2026-05-18'
---

# What Are Examples of Distribution Channels?

**Updated:** May 2026

Oleksandr Honcharov, CEO at FlawlessMLM 

Examples of distribution channels include direct online sales (brand websites), retail stores, wholesalers, distributors, e-commerce marketplaces, franchise networks, and direct sales representatives. Each example describes a path that products follow from producer to end consumer. What are examples of distribution channels depends on the industry and the level of intermediation involved.

**Common distribution channel examples**

*   **Direct e-commerce** — Warby Parker selling glasses through warbyparker.com.
*   **Brand-owned retail** — Apple Stores selling iPhones and MacBooks.
*   **Third-party retail** — Coca-Cola products sold in supermarkets and convenience stores.
*   **Wholesalers** — Sysco distributing food products to restaurants.
*   **Online marketplaces** — third-party sellers on Amazon, eBay, or Etsy.
*   **Franchise networks** — McDonald's franchisees operating restaurants worldwide.
*   **Direct sales reps** — Avon and Mary Kay representatives selling door-to-door or online.
*   **Dealerships** — auto manufacturers selling through licensed dealers.

**Definition:** Distribution channel examples include direct e-commerce, brand retail stores, third-party retailers, wholesalers, online marketplaces, franchise networks, direct sales representatives, and dealerships. Each represents a different combination of intermediaries between producer and consumer.

Most large brands use multi-channel distribution. Nike sells through its website, its own retail stores, third-party retailers, and online marketplaces simultaneously.

---
Source: [FlawlessMLM FAQ](https://flawlessmlm.com/en/faq/what-are-examples-of-distribution-channels)