Which statement describes a characteristic of direct distribution compared to fulfillment centers?

• A. The manufacturer controls all aspects of distribution.
• B. Warehousing is outsourced.
• C. Inventory is stored for longer periods of time.
• D. Packing and shipping is done by a third-party.

Answer: (A)

Direct distribution means the producer keeps control over the entire flow of goods, from how inventory is stored to how orders are packed and shipped, often selling directly to customers through the company’s own channels. This in-house control distinguishes it from using fulfillment centers, where a third-party logistics provider handles warehousing and order fulfillment. Because the defining idea is that the manufacturer retains control of distribution, this option fits best. The other statements describe scenarios where warehousing or fulfillment tasks are outsourced or where storage patterns differ, which align more with using fulfillment services than with direct distribution.