Many candidates attempted this question and performed well in part (a) but performed poorly in part (b). 

Some reasons why wholesalers may be eliminated were as follows:

                                                           

• Hoarding of goods and selling at exorbitant prices.
• If manufacturers are selling perishable product or highly technical goods which require installation or goods of high unit value, they sell direct to consumers.
• To allow manufacturers to have greater control over  marketing activities etc.