The Distribution Channel is a chain of businesses or intermediaries through which a good or service passes until it reaches the end consumer. A distribution channel can include wholesalers, retailers, distributors, and even the internet. Channels are broken into direct and indirect forms, with a direct channel allowing the consumer to buy the good from the manufacturer and an indirect channel allowing the consumer to buy the good from a wholesaler. Direct channels are considered shorter than indirect ones.

Source: www.investopedia.com