Which factor is part of the four considerations for channel alternatives?

• A. Number of levels
• B. Intensity at each level
• C. Specific types of intermediaries
• D. Advertising budget

Answer: (C)

Choosing among channel alternatives centers on who will handle distribution to customers. The specific types of intermediaries you select—such as retailers, wholesalers, agents, distributors, or direct-to-consumer options—shape how widely the product is available, the level of service customers receive, delivery speed, and the costs and control involved. This dimension directly affects channel performance, because different intermediaries bring different capabilities, market reach, and relationships with buyers.

The other factors in the options touch on different aspects of channel strategy but don’t define the intermediary choice itself: the number of levels and the intensity of coverage describe the channel’s structure and how broadly it’s distributed, not which kind of middleman is used. Advertising budget relates to promotion rather than channel selection.