What is the term for the route a product takes from a manufacturer to the final consumer?

The term that describes the route a product takes from a manufacturer to the final consumer is "distribution channel." A distribution channel encompasses all the steps or pathways that move products from the producer to the consumer, including various intermediaries such as wholesalers, retailers, and other entities involved in making the product available in the marketplace.

This concept is crucial in marketing, as it directly impacts the accessibility and availability of the product to consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions. A well-structured distribution channel ensures that products reach the right market in an efficient manner, facilitating customer satisfaction and potentially increasing sales.

While other terms like supply chain and logistics are related, they encompass broader concepts. The supply chain includes all the processes involved in producing and delivering a product, from sourcing raw materials to final delivery, while logistics refers specifically to the management of the flow of goods, services, and information within the supply chain. Retail chain is a specific kind of distribution channel focused on retailers, but it does not cover the entire scope of how products reach consumers.