The Wholesale Trade Industry Quickfacts Generally, the wholesale trade industry consists of two types of firms. First, there are the wholesale merchants who are primarily engaged in buying merchandise for resale to retailers, other businesses, trade contractors, and other wholesalers. Other business may include industrial, commercial, institutional, farm or professional firms. Second, there are firms that act as agents and brokers in the buying or selling merchandise on a commission basis.
Wholesalers are a key link between manufacturers and the marketplace.
They anticipate customer needs and demands, buy merchandise, carry inventory, assemble shipments, deliver merchandise, extend credit, provide knowledge on various aspects of marketing products in Canada and abroad, and provide consultation services.