Which of the following is a responsibility of wholesalers in the product distribution chain?

Wholesalers play a crucial role in the product distribution chain by serving as intermediaries between manufacturers and retailers. One of their key responsibilities is facilitating communication between these two parties. This involves sharing important information about product availability, pricing, market demands, and promotional activities. By maintaining this communication, wholesalers help ensure that retailers are well-informed and can offer products that meet consumer needs.

In contrast, direct sales to consumers are typically the responsibility of retailers rather than wholesalers. While wholesalers may assist with advertising, their primary focus is on supporting retailers rather than directly marketing to end-users. Maintaining suppliers' inventory does not fall under the typical functions of wholesalers, as they primarily handle inventory for the products they distribute rather than for suppliers directly. Therefore, the role of facilitating communication effectively highlights the integrative aspect of wholesalers in the distribution process.