Case Study: Optimizing Channel Functions in a Service-based Retailing Business Background: ABC Retailers is a well-established service-based retailing company that specializes in providing personalized shopping experiences to its customers. The company offers a wide range of products, including fashion, electronics, and home goods. ABC Retailers operates both physical stores and an online platform to cater to the diverse needs of its customer base. Scenario: The company has recently been facing challenges in its channel functions, impacting the overall customer experience and operational efficiency. The management team is keen on addressing these issues and optimizing the retailing and wholesaling processes. Issues: Inventory Management: The company has been experiencing difficulties in managing its inventory effectively, leading to instances of stockouts and excess inventory in certain product categories. Supply Chain Coordination: The coordination between the retail and wholesale channels has been suboptimal, resulting in delays in product availability and increased lead times. Customer Experience: Some customers have reported dissatisfaction with the overall shopping experience, citing issues such as product unavailability, delivery delays, and inconsistent service across different channels. Task: As a consultant hired by ABC Retailers, your task is to analyze the current situation and propose recommendations to optimize channel functions in both retailing and wholesaling. Questions for Discussion: Inventory Management: How can ABC Retailers improve its inventory management system to prevent stockouts and excess inventory? Supply Chain Coordination: How can the coordination between the retail and wholesale channels be improved to reduce lead times and enhance overall efficiency? Customer Experience: What initiatives can ABC Retailers undertake to enhance the overall shopping experience for its customers? Conclusion: