Multi-channel sales strategy as a competitive advantage in wholesale trade
Authors:   Synergy University, Nikulina Yu. V. ,   LLC “GM System”, Chernukhina Galina N. ,   Synergy University
Published: February 2021

Relevance. The multi-channel sales strategy involves the simultaneous use of different sales channels by the trading company. This can be wholesale and retail sales, for example, online stores and regular offline stores located in shopping centers and pavilions. The use of multichannel requires the restructuring of the it infrastructure of the wholesale trade enterprise, which implements the processes of various sales channels in a single it environment. Due to the existence of a sales system at the enterprise, and not separate sales channels, a synergistic effect is achieved, which provides the company with an additional increase in sales. Currently, the problem of managing optimal sales channels and organizing product movement in wholesale trade determines the need for a systematic study that ensures the sustainable development of sales activities of modern wholesale enterprises based on the use of modern digital channels of interaction and diversification. Diversified approaches to sales channels provide security in the event that some sales decline. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a halt in offline retail purchases. This is an example of why digital online solutions and diversification are necessary to create a successful and sustainable business. The purpose of the study: based on the analysis of various aspects of the strategic direction of management of multi-channel sales in wholesale trade in modern conditions. Objectives of the study: to identify sources of receipt and channels of sale of goods in wholesale trade; to analyze modern software and information technology solutions necessary for managing multi-channel sales, for working with products and customer base in wholesale distribution; to specify strategic directions of multi-channel sales management in the tactical context of working with customers as anti-crisis measures, etc. Results of the study. The author identified the sources of receipt and channels of sale of goods in wholesale trade. The following strategic directions of managing multi-channel sales in wholesale trade are also identified: increasing and careful selection of intermediary channels; increasing attention to supply chain management; maintaining and maintaining a high degree of customer loyalty (customer orientation); consolidating all channels into one strong channel; diversifying sales channels; using modern software tools and technologies for working with products and customers. It is concluded that companies that have implemented a well-planned multi-channel strategy increase the number of potential buyers, provide additional income and sustainable business growth. According to the authors, the strategic directions of multichannel sales management developed by him work on the entire life cycle of a wholesale enterprise: from business strategy to specific solutions to increase sales. The author also believes that in the future, most companies will invest in multi-channel sales at the country and international levels.