One of topics discussed in the chapter 15 Distributing Products is electronic retailing. As discussed in the chapter, nothing else in retailing has received more attention recently than electronic retailing. As far as I'm concerned, although it continues to grow much faster than retail sales through stores and catalogs and continues its trend of becoming a larger part of total retail sales, e- retailing would not replace traditional retail sales. Some crucial flaws of e-retailing make it impossible to replace the traditional sales.

Normally when we shop from a regular store, we can see the item and at least visually inspect that it looks fine. We can select a color, size and can even speak to a sales person to clarify doubts regarding the item. E-retailing cannot offer this benefit. We cannot see the item till it is delivered to our doors. Misinterpretation or misunderstanding of items bought online is a common problem. It is very common that the photo of items you see online are much better than once you have the item in front of you.

Second, you cannot get what you want immediately after you pay. After you place an order online, you have to wait for a few days for the item to arrive which can be quite frustrating. So you cannot buy items that you need right now.

Third, some items cannot be sold online. For example, if some low priced items like pencils, notebooks, etc. are sold online, shipping them will likely double the cost. Besides, some perishable items like milk, fruits and vegetables cannot ordered online.

Last but not least, the risk of fraud. Your credit card number and personal information may be sent over the Internet. If you do not use a secured line, a hacker could steal your credit card number and use it to purchase things or sell it to someone else. They also could be giving your information to telemarketers so that they can send you