There are many trends that are unfolding due to retail businesses in the competitive business environment and requires them to use the services of direct marketing in the sales of their goods and services. This has been used by many of the starter up firms, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and large firms too. Direct marketing is popularly used for gift items, apparels, magazines, sports equipment, books, home accessories, food and insurance. There are several trends that are relevant for direct marketing in the products and services for which it has been used. It is in this regard that different nations across the world are massively supporting the setting up of many small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). One issue that modern SMEs have embraced is the usage of direct marketing in running their businesses. a. Identify and explain five (5) trends of direct marketing with examples that are common to firms using the method for selling their goods and services? [10 Marks] b. Discuss five (5) reasons for the successes of direct marketing in the market segments it has been used? [5 Marks] c. Explain five (5) reasons why direct marketing has failed in some situations?