Wholesale Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wholesale
[ˈhoʊlˌseɪl ]
Definitions
business trade
Wholesale refers to the sale of goods in large quantities, typically to retailers or distributors, rather than to the end consumer. It is a key component of the supply chain, enabling manufacturers to sell their products to retailers who then sell them to the public. By selling in bulk, wholesalers can often provide lower prices per unit, benefiting both themselves and their clients. Wholesale transactions often involve significant negotiation over prices and terms, making it crucial for businesses to understand market trends.
Synonyms
bulk trade, distributors, mass sales.
Examples of usage
- The retailer bought the products at wholesale prices.
- Many stores get their inventory through wholesale suppliers.
- She decided to start a wholesale business to provide goods to local shops.
cost strategy
As an adjective, wholesale describes activities related to the bulk sale of products. It often implies a larger scale of operations and a focus on lower prices achieved by selling large volumes. Wholesale pricing is typically lower than retail pricing, making it attractive for businesses that can purchase items in bulk. This terminology is commonly used in various industries, including food, clothing, and electronics.
Synonyms
bulk, discounted, large-scale.
Examples of usage
- They offered wholesale rates for bulk purchases.
- The company specializes in wholesale distribution of electronics.
- I found wholesale deals for winter apparel.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Business
- Wholesaling helps businesses save on storage and shipping costs by centralizing the buying process.
- Many retailers rely on wholesalers to provide a variety of products without needing to stock them all themselves.
- The wholesale market plays a crucial role in the economy by enabling the distribution of goods from producers to consumers.
Economics
- Wholesalers usually offer lower prices compared to retailers because they sell in bulk, reducing per-unit costs.
- The wholesale industry has been crucial in the rise of e-commerce, allowing online stores to stock large inventories without physical shops.
- Market dynamics show that fluctuations in wholesale prices can signal changes in consumer demand and economic health.
Cultural Impact
- Wholesale buying has led to the rise of 'warehouse clubs' like Costco, where consumers can buy in bulk for better deals.
- Special events like Black Friday have incorporated wholesale strategies, giving shoppers significant discounts on bulk purchases.
- The growth of fair trade movements has increased awareness of how wholesale practices can impact farmers and producers.
Technology
- The advent of online marketplaces has transformed the wholesale industry, allowing small businesses to access a global market.
- Technology like inventory management systems has streamlined wholesale operations, making it easier to track goods and manage distributors.
- Data analytics tools are helping wholesalers forecast demand and optimize their product offerings, benefiting both buyers and sellers.
Origin of 'wholesale'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'wholesale' comes from Old English, where 'whole' means complete and 'sale' means to sell.
- The word appeared in trade language around the 15th century, reflecting the concept of selling goods in bulk.
- Historically, wholesalers acted as middlemen between manufacturers and retailers, a role established long before modern commerce.
The term 'wholesale' derives from the Middle English word 'wholes,' meaning 'a whole' or 'a mass,' which itself originates from the Old English 'hal,' meaning 'whole' or 'healthy.' The first recorded use of 'wholesale' in the current financial context appeared in the late 16th century, when it began to refer specifically to the practice of selling goods in large quantities. As industrialization progressed in the 19th century, wholesale commerce became increasingly significant, paving the way for the development of large wholesale markets and distribution centers. The growth of wholesale business models has continued into the modern age with the advent of e-commerce, allowing wholesalers to connect more efficiently with retailers and customers around the world.