What is a primary characteristic of retailers?

A primary characteristic of retailers is that they sell products directly to final consumers. Retailers serve as the last link in the supply chain, taking products from wholesalers or manufacturers and making them available for purchase by individual customers. This relationship is crucial as retailers often provide a variety of goods and services tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the consuming public. By focusing on direct sales to consumers, retailers play an essential role in facilitating access to products, ensuring that customers can obtain what they need conveniently.

In contrast, other options reflect activities that are not characteristic of retailers. Selling large quantities to other businesses describes wholesalers or distributors. Acting as intermediaries in the supply chain could apply to various types of businesses, including wholesalers and logistics companies, but it doesn't capture the direct consumer aspect unique to retail. Lastly, manufacturing their own goods pertains to manufacturers, which is an entirely different function from the retail process. These distinctions clarify why direct sales to final consumers is at the core of what defines a retailer.