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Basically, our economic structure is composed of three major functions production, distribution, and consumption. In the early days, production and consumption were the significant phases of the economic cycle. The producer, farmer, miner, manufacturer, and processor, dealt most directly with the consumer. As society became more complex and more efficient means of transporting goods to distant places were developed, the retailing function became necessary. As manufacturers grew in size, they were reduced in number relative to population. Wholesaling was added to assemble consumer goods and distribute them to the growing number of small retailers. As production continued to grow and expand, the marketing process became more complex and specialized. Manufacturers' representatives, agents, and jobbers were necessary. Included in these processes are various supporting or ancillary services such as: transportation, banking, credit, insurance, warehousing, advertising, and communication.
Marketing represents a large and growing occupational area. It takes a significant percentage of the work force to distribute what the manufacturers, processors, and farmers can produce. To enjoy the benefits of mass production and the subsequent reduction in cost, a good system of mass distribution is essential. As per capita income increases, so does the number of people required to provide the goods and services needed or wanted. The need for more and better-trained people to work in the many occupations in this area grows. More training is essential as business operations become more complex.
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