Roles of Wholesalers in Transaction Networks

摘要: Wholesalers are considered to play an important role in ensuring efficient transaction networks. Using unique data on Japanese domestic transactions compiled by Tokyo Shoko Research, we investigate wholesalers' roles networks for intermediate manufacturing goods. Comparing firms transacting directly and those connected indirectly through wholesalers, find a clear asymmetry the characteristics of buyer- seller-side manufacturers that tend rely wholesalers. We also examine how distances differ depending partners, that, as compared partners direct transactions, wholesalers locate closer their buyers farther from sellers, ceteris paribus. This gives us insights support connect geographically dispersed firms.