{"id":2412,"date":"2025-08-05T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-05T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/?p=2412"},"modified":"2025-08-07T13:18:53","modified_gmt":"2025-08-07T13:18:53","slug":"how-to-win-more-sales-with-an-optimized-distribution-strategy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/2025\/08\/05\/how-to-win-more-sales-with-an-optimized-distribution-strategy\/","title":{"rendered":"How to win more sales with an optimized distribution strategy"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>I feel like <em>starting<\/em> a retail business has never been easier \u2014 there\u2019s a YouTube video and tool for everything. But <em>growing <\/em>one is exceedingly challenging. To survive in a competitive market, brands have to outshine their competitors and reach their customers where they are globally. This is a challenge, especially if you don\u2019t have an optimized distribution strategy.<\/p>\n<p><a class=\"cta_button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hubspot.com\/cs\/ci\/?pg=5f39f863-0316-486f-a5f3-849d76490a30&amp;pid=53&amp;ecid=&amp;hseid=&amp;hsic=\"><img class=\"hs-cta-img \" style=\"height: auto !important;width: auto !important;max-width: 100% !important;border-width: 0px\" alt=\"Download Now: Free Growth Strategy Template\" height=\"59\" width=\"422\" src=\"https:\/\/no-cache.hubspot.com\/cta\/default\/53\/5f39f863-0316-486f-a5f3-849d76490a30.png\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Today, consumers expect to interact with brands via multiple distribution channels. They want to buy in-store, via a company site, third-party platforms, and <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/sales\/social-media-and-sales?_ga%3D2.225843034.1776192159.1665174671-1646147041.1665174671%26hubs_content%3Dblog.hubspot.com\/sales\/optimized-distribution-strategy%26hubs_content-cta%3Dsocial%2520media\">social media<\/a>. This is what makes a comprehensive distribution strategy important. An optimized distribution strategy will help you figure out the right way to reach them.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, I\u2019ll guide you through how to do just that.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Table of Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what-is-distribution-strategy\">What is distribution strategy?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#types-of-distribution-strategy\">Types of Distribution Strategies<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#selecting-the-right-strategy\">Selecting the Right Strategy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#distribution-strategy-examples\">Distribution Strategy Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#tips-for-creating-a-distribution-strategy\">Tips for Creating an Effective Distribution Strategy<\/a><a href=\"#distribution-strategy-examples\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a><\/a> <\/p>\n<p>The principal aim of any retailer is to get their goods to the <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/sales\/target-market\">target market<\/a>. Not only that, you must make them available in the manner they prefer to buy them, as seamlessly as possible, to keep customers engaged. This is a moving target.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Statistic:<\/strong>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/emarsys.com\/consumer-products-engagement-report-2025-global\/\">77% of consumer product marketers<\/a> have reported that they must significantly transform their brand\u2019s customer engagement approach in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Your distribution strategy is how you reconcile all these necessities.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"650\" height=\"426\" alt=\"distribution strategy visual through the omnichannel lens\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/distribution20strategy20visual20through20the20omnichannel20lens.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbinsights.com\/research\/report\/omnichannel-retail-technology\/\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Your strategy is your plan to speed the connection between your offerings and their end-users. That\u2019s whether they\u2019re consumers, businesses, or a mixture of the two. There are many considerations to account for when defining a distribution strategy.<\/p>\n<p>The following are a handful of the most notable:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/what-is-customer-experience\">customer experience<\/a> you aim to give and how distribution options align with it<\/li>\n<li>The nature of your products and how they must get sold and used<\/li>\n<li>Your direct competitors and how they serve customers<\/li>\n<li>Consumer needs and demands<\/li>\n<li>Shipping considerations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>First, let\u2019s look at one of the fundamental building blocks of an optimized distribution strategy \u2014 the <strong>distribution channels<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Distribution Channels<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>You might think distribution channels are self-explanatory. It\u2019s the different places you sell your products, right? Wrong. That\u2019s a common misconception. Your website, a third-party platform, or a physical store is not a distribution channel. However, each can form <em>part<\/em> of your distribution channel.<\/p>\n<p>A distribution channel is <strong>a product\u2019s entire journey <\/strong>to get from you to its end-user. It could be that your store or website is all that\u2019s involved. That\u2019s the case if you\u2019re a <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/marketing\/direct-to-consumer\">direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand<\/a> with a direct distribution strategy: You sell your lines straight to their end-users. Not all distribution channels are as straightforward, though.<\/p>\n<p>Lots of channels, in fact, include intermediate steps between your firm and consumers \u2014 this is known as an indirect distribution strategy. The principal players in such more complex chains are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Producers<\/strong>. These are the manufacturers who make products or their constituent parts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wholesalers<\/strong>. Your budget and the costs associated with different distribution channels. Firms specializing in broad distribution of products to multiple retailers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Retailers<\/strong>. Businesses that sell products to their end-users. Sales can happen online or offline.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Consumers\/End-Users<\/strong>. The final purchasers of an item. They\u2019re buying it to use, not to sell on.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your business can exist at different points of these channels. If you sell many different products, too, each may have its own channel. You may also use more than one, or even more than one type, even if you only provide one product line. That\u2019s where four principal varieties of distribution strategy enter the picture.<\/p>\n<p><a><\/a> <\/p>\n<h2><strong>Types of Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>An optimized sales distribution strategy is one tailored to your brand and customers. You don\u2019t have to choose from a limited number of prescribed alternatives. There are, however, four categories into which most strategies fall: intensive, selective, exclusive, and direct-to-consumer.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"450\" height=\"506\" alt=\"types of distribution strategy\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 450px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/types20of20distribution20strategy.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.repsly.com\/blog\/consumer-goods\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-product-distribution\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>1. Intensive Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Many brands adopt this type of distribution strategy. Intensive distribution involves implementing as many different channels as possible for a given product. It\u2019s a common strategy for consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies, perishables, and personal care products (to name a few).<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong>&nbsp;Enhances market penetration for the product. Widest consumer base. Powerful to increase brand awareness.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong>&nbsp;Not always cost-effective. Pricing may vary, with retail stores trying to undercut each other.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some easy examples of this are Coca-Cola and Snickers bars \u2014 these items can be bought practically anywhere, from Amazon to Walmart to vending machines (kids even sell Snickers bars door-to-door as a part of school fundraisers).<\/p>\n<p>No business starts with an intensive distribution strategy. \u201cYou evolve to that the bigger you get,\u201d shared <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/davegulas\/\">Dave Gulas<\/a>, cofounder of <a href=\"https:\/\/ezdc3pl.com\/\">EZDC<\/a>. Gulas helps ecommerce brands scale, and he shared his insights (including what he considers to be the \u201choly grail\u201d of distribution \u2014 which I\u2019ll get to in a minute).<\/p>\n<h3><strong>2. Selective Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This strategy is when firms choose different channels for specific products or services. They might, for instance, only sell an item in a particular geographic area. Or they may restrict sales of product lines to only their website. The idea here is to match channels to consumer behavior and demand. That, thus, is more cost and time-efficient for the brand.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong>&nbsp;You can target consumers with more precision. More control over price, market, etc.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong>&nbsp;More reliant on the distributor\u2019s relationship with your target audience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example from the natural deodorant company <a href=\"https:\/\/nuudcare.com\/\">Nuud<\/a>. They nudge customers to purchase directly from their website (where they have the highest profit margins and most control over customer experience), but also have selective distribution partners:<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"650\" height=\"265\" alt=\"nuud deodorant selective distribution example\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/nuud20deodorant20selective20distribution20example.png\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nuudcare.com\/\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. Exclusive Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Companies may restrict the provision of some items even more. They could, for instance, use only one very narrow channel for a particular line. When brands use this tactic, they\u2019re trying to stoke scarcity and thus demand. It\u2019s how companies make products seem higher-end and more desirable. Or, a company could choose to only sell its entire product base directly to customers on its website.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong>&nbsp;Exclusivity can create buzz for special launches. Explores symbiotic partnerships.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong>&nbsp;High reward means high risk. Some willing buyers will be unable to access.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a 2025 launch by Blogilates <a href=\"https:\/\/www.blogilates.com\/blog\/blogilates-for-target\/\">and Target<\/a>. Exclusivity was a prime marketing characteristic, as you can see with the tagline \u201cnew and only at Target.\u201d This launch went viral, no doubt in part to the founder\u2019s massive audience established online and the perfect alignment between customers and retail venue.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" alt=\"blogilates x target exclusive distribution strategy example\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 450px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/blogilates20x20target20exclusive20distribution20strategy20example.png\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.blogilates.com\/blog\/blogilates-for-target\/\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong>&nbsp;These aren\u2019t siloed approaches to distribution. A company can simultaneously leverage both an intensive and exclusive distribution strategy by releasing limited-edition products in specific locations.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>4. Direct Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>For many brands, it\u2019s advantageous to have a direct distribution strategy for as long as possible. Dave Gulas even described it as the holy grail: \u201c<strong>The<\/strong> <strong>holy grail of distribution<\/strong> is not needing these middlemen, these distribution channels.\u201d And while direct distribution strategies are by no means new, Gulas said that \u201cthe direct-to-consumer aspect of it has gone on steroids,\u201d citing the evolution of social media.<\/p>\n<p>While this might look similar to an <em>exclusive<\/em> distribution strategy, it\u2019s different in many important ways. Namely, a larger operational burden, higher profit margins, and the founder can be the face of the company. This brings a powerful level of authenticity to the entire sales process. The clich\u00e9 \u201cpeople buy from people\u201d comes to life with this strategy (when leveraged properly \u2014 more on this in a minute).<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong>&nbsp;Complete control. Lowest costs. Most adaptable.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cons:<\/strong>&nbsp;Requires inbound customers. All awareness is generated by you. Largest operational burden.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of the clothing brand <a href=\"https:\/\/seethewayisee.com\/\">See The Way I See<\/a>, which went on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnbc.com\/2023\/05\/08\/why-mark-cuban-shark-tank-investors-rejected-see-the-way-i-see-apparel.html?utm_content%3DMain%26utm_medium%3DSocial%26utm_source%3DTwitter\">Shark Tank in 2023<\/a>, touting huge sales through social media. The investors on the show passed on founder Sophie Nistico\u2019s pitch because they all agreed that her business model was thriving and didn\u2019t need their help.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"650\" height=\"320\" alt=\"see the way i see direction distribution example\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/see20the20way20i20see20direction20distribution20example.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seethewayisee.com\/\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a><\/a> <\/p>\n<h2><strong>Selecting the Right Strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Defining the right distribution strategy for your product is more complicated than choosing from those four options, of course. You should stay focused on<strong> your customers<\/strong> while also considering your <strong>commercial goals<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>I recommend you weigh the following considerations when creating an effective distribution strategy for your product.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Internal Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Assess your internal infrastructure and how much control you want over distribution.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Business operations.<\/strong>&nbsp;Could the right tech provide a smooth, direct distribution plan? Is your logistics good enough to reliably supply a retailer on the other side of the world? Start by focusing on what your team can realistically sustain.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Post-purchase support.<\/strong>&nbsp;How much post-purchase support might end-users need? Would third-party retailers or providers be able to offer it? How much control do you want over the customer experience?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Different channels for different products.<\/strong>&nbsp;Do you need to explore different channels for particular products? Or in other geographical areas or territories? Could dual distribution offer the flexibility your business needs?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong>&nbsp;This isn\u2019t a one-time task, but rather an ongoing review of sales data. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/loris-petro-182a40144\/\">Loris Petro<\/a>, marketing manager at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kratomearth.com\/\">Kratom Earth<\/a>, shared this advice: \u201cChoosing a distribution strategy that works for you means stripping away what looks good in a pitch deck and focusing on how people live, shop, and think in each location. Nothing beats observing that up close and adjusting as you go.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>This is backed by research: <a href=\"https:\/\/emarsys.com\/consumer-products-engagement-report-2025-global\/\">76% of consumer product marketers<\/a> report that they must adapt to changes faster than ever before.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Market Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Assessing your marketing channels, <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/customer-behavior-analysis\">customer data<\/a>, and product awareness will help you gauge market considerations.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Target audience.<\/strong>&nbsp;Customer preferences should be heavily weighed. Where is your customer base shopping? What\u2019s most convenient for them?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Awareness. <\/strong>Are potential customers already aware of your product, or do they need to be introduced? Direct sales can offer better margins and more control, but are you equipped to reach customers without retail partners?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Marketing channels.<\/strong>&nbsp;How does content marketing impact or align with different distribution channels? Which <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/marketing\/advertising\">ad types<\/a> (online or off) best support your broader strategy?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/honetito\/\">Hone John Tito<\/a>, cofounder of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gamehostbros.com\/\">Game Host Bros<\/a>, shared the following experience of how he adapted his strategy to cater to different target markets. \u201cWhen we launched our North American game server hosting, we focused on direct sales and online advertising. But when we expanded into Europe and Asia, we quickly discovered we had to have local partners who were better positioned to handle those markets than we could from across the ocean. We had to adapt our strategy based on the demands of each region, and the key metric that we watched closely was the customer acquisition cost (CAC). It dropped 20% once we made the switch to a partner model in Europe.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Product Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Assess how your product impacts distribution, planning for long-term efficiency (though this will evolve as your product and the market change).<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Routine purchases.<\/strong>&nbsp;If customers purchase your products routinely, middleman costs will add up substantially. Earning customer loyalty is a big upfront cost, but a relationship where customers purchase directly from your website instead of Amazon or big box retailers offers huge cost savings over time.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Customer demand.<\/strong>&nbsp;Is there enough demand from the general public to support an intensive distribution strategy?<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/agency\/develop-brand-identity\">Brand identity<\/a><\/strong><strong>. <\/strong>Does it fit your brand\u2019s positioning to have your products in every store under the sun? If you have a higher-end reputation, should availability be more limited? Also, consider if your customers purchase from you for value-based reasons.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong>&nbsp;Selling on Amazon is an effective way to reach consumers who are searching for your products. However, many conscious consumers boycott Amazon. Choosing to sell through Amazon could conflict with your brand\u2019s identity and your target market\u2019s motives to purchase from you.<\/p>\n<p><a><\/a> <\/p>\n<h2><strong>Distribution Strategy Examples<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>With all of that information in mind, let\u2019s see how these distribution strategies look out in the wild.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>1. Dawn Dish Soap: Intensive Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Household cleaning companies aim to position their product everywhere, meaning both direct and indirect channels. Customers can buy their favorite dish soap online from wholesalers or curbside pickup at their favorite retail locations (distributors).<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"650\" height=\"280\" alt=\"dawn dish soap intensive distribution example\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/dawn20dish20soap20intensive20distribution20example.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dawn-dish.com\/en-us\/products\/dawn-ultra\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p>By using the intensive strategy, this dish soap is available at:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ecommerce websites<\/li>\n<li>Convenience stores<\/li>\n<li>Grocery stores<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>2. Jeni\u2019s Ice Cream: Selective Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Ice cream is typically seen as another product sold using the intensive distribution strategy. Still, for smaller brands that aren\u2019t sold in big box stores, Jeni\u2019s Ice Cream has the opportunity to offer exclusive flavors and products depending on the location of its ice cream parlors, and now even through shipping.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"650\" height=\"297\" alt=\"jeni\u2019s ice cream selective distribution strategy example\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/jeniE28099s20ice20cream20selective20distribution20strategy20example.jpg\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/jenis.com\/\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p>For particular states or shop locations, Jeni\u2019s also offers exclusive merch like pint koozies, seasonal flavors, or limited edition flavors that are only available in controlled ways and periods.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. Local Pet-Sitting Service: Exclusive Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Even more niche of a service offering is the example of a small business running a pet-sitting service that only encompasses a particular zip code or clientele. This business may only be advertised through word-of-mouth, flyers shared around a small town, or the local community Facebook group.<\/p>\n<p>This strategy also works for a business like a pet sitter because pet owners may trust a single individual more than a chain pet hotel. The customers\u2019 pets may get more attention and better care, displaying the value in exclusivity as owners will have more trust and build a closer relationship with the service provider over chains offering the same service.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Why an Optimized Distribution Strategy is Essential<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>I\u2019ve found the most successful companies are those that create a genuine connection with consumers. You can\u2019t do that with a scatter-shot approach to distribution. You must tailor your strategy to those you wish to serve. That way, you ensure your target market gets the desired customer experience.<\/p>\n<p>To deliver that experience, both customer satisfaction and loyalty will follow. <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/customer-loyalty-program\">Loyal customers<\/a> are like gold dust for businesses. They spend more, and it costs less to keep them on board than to attract new ones. That\u2019s why optimized distribution is essential.<\/p>\n<p>On top of that, more of your customers will also become <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/customer-advocate\">brand advocates<\/a>. They\u2019ll sing your praises to friends, relatives, colleagues, and more. You got them the products they wanted, when and how they wanted them, after all.<\/p>\n<p>An optimized distribution strategy, then, can aid both customer retention and acquisition. Thus, winning you more sales in two distinct ways. How, though, can you create that kind of strategy?<\/p>\n<p><a><\/a> <\/p>\n<h2><strong>Tips for Creating an Effective Distribution Strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>1. Select the correct channels.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>An integral part of your distribution strategy is your choice of channels. You must decide on the most efficient way of delivering products to <em>your <\/em>audience. But, simultaneously, your chosen channels must be viable for your budget and future plans.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, you may find that consumers like to buy products like yours directly online. That could suggest a direct channel where you sell through a dedicated online store. Starting to sell online is no small undertaking. Nested inside of that single task are a hundred other to-dos that take time and money to execute:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Designing an ecommerce website<\/li>\n<li>Going live<\/li>\n<li>Getting traffic<\/li>\n<li>Orders being placed<\/li>\n<li>Learning to manage inventory<\/li>\n<li>Nailing logistics for shipping and delivery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If your brand doesn\u2019t have the broader goal of extending its online presence, that could be a step too far. Instead, then, you might consider using Amazon as part of a distribution channel. I think it\u2019s these kinds of balances that play into choosing the right channels for your business.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>2. Balance and align those channels.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Speaking of balance, once you\u2019ve chosen distribution chains, you have to ensure they line up. Each channel must <strong>serve a particular purpose<\/strong>, or else it\u2019s unnecessary. What you offer to customers through them all, however, must align.<\/p>\n<p>Consumers won\u2019t like finding out they can get your product cheaper if they buy it in a different way. Pricing, positioning, and promotions across channels must be carefully balanced. You must, too, consider how best to satisfy demand via all avenues. Your supply chain needs may vary by channel.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. Combine and integrate departments and processes.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Your distribution strategy will, by nature, be multi-faceted. For each channel, you must consider diverse elements. Things such as marketing, sales, logistics, customer service, and more. I believe it\u2019s vital to have all business areas pulling in the same direction.<\/p>\n<p>Make sure that your departments all share information. Customer service agents must know about marketing promotions for particular products. Your sales staff have to be told about logistics issues, especially if they make delivering certain lines more difficult.<\/p>\n<p>I find the best way to achieve cross-organizational integration is by breaking down <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/data-silos\">data silos<\/a>. Make sure all customer and company information is accessible by all departments. Solutions such as unified communications or <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/service\/customer-data-platform-guide\">customer data platforms<\/a> can help.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>4. Build and nurture your network.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Once you decide on the channels to use as part of your strategy, it\u2019s time to make it a reality. That means creating a <strong>network of partners <\/strong>to help you distribute your goods as you desire.<\/p>\n<p>You may have to reach out to manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers, for instance. That\u2019s not to mention other firms or service providers. People like web developers or third-party logistics (3PL) specialists.<\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"0\" height=\"0\" alt=\"building and nurturing your network\" style=\"margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;width: 650px;height: auto;max-width: 100%\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/building20and20nurturing20your20network.webp\"><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;font-size: 12px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.repsly.com\/blog\/consumer-goods\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-product-distribution\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve made connections, too, you should keep working to develop them. Frankly, I think keeping cordial relations with suppliers or retailers is just common sense. It makes them more likely to help you out if and when needed.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a manufacturer, it could help you, too, to provide product training to retailers. When they know your products inside-out, they\u2019re better equipped to sell them. They\u2019ll also be able to offer better support to consumers.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>5. Evaluate and improve your strategy.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Business, whatever your niche or industry, is never static. That means that even once you\u2019ve got an optimized distribution strategy, your work\u2019s not done. You need to keep it as efficient as possible with constant evaluation.<\/p>\n<p>That means continuing to collect customer data. Check in to see how your chosen channels are working out. Do consumers still want to buy online for home delivery? Have their preferences instead shifted to buy online, pick up in store (<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.hubspot.com\/marketing\/ecommerce-marketing\">BOPIS<\/a>)?<\/p>\n<p>Continually evaluating your strategy lets you make timely improvements. I suggest adding new channels, re-balancing your existing ones, and more, as consumer demand dictates. It\u2019s how to stay ahead of your rivals.<\/p>\n<p>Supplying the right lines, at the correct time, by the best method is fundamental to success. That\u2019s why I say it\u2019s essential to develop an optimized distribution strategy.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Optimize your distribution strategy for more sales.<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>I love looking at a product and appreciating the incredible amount of effort that it took to bring it to the consumer\u2019s hands. It\u2019s a large, dynamic puzzle for businesses. Getting your products or services to your end-users is a priority that shouldn\u2019t be decided in haste.<\/p>\n<p>I hope these tips above can help you develop an efficient distribution strategy to help you improve sales and meet growth objectives. In doing so, you\u2019ll enable your business to improve the customer experience, satisfaction, and win more sales.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic\">Editor\u2019s note: The article was originally published October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" style=\"min-height:1px!important;width:1px!important;border-width:0!important;margin-top:0!important;margin-bottom:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-left:0!important;padding-top:0!important;padding-bottom:0!important;padding-right:0!important;padding-left:0!important\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/track.hubspot.com\/__ptq.gif?a=53&amp;k=14&amp;r=https%3A%2F%2Fblog.hubspot.com%2Fsales%2Foptimized-distribution-strategy&amp;bu=https%253A%252F%252Fblog.hubspot.com%252Fsales&amp;bvt=rss\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I feel like starting a retail business has never been easier \u2014 there\u2019s a YouTube video and tool for everything. But growing one is exceedingly challenging. To survive in a competitive market, brands have to outshine their competitors and reach&#8230; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2415,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[15],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2412"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2412"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2412\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2526,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2412\/revisions\/2526"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2415"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2412"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2412"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.zoomlavilin.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2412"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}