"Advances in Distribution Channel Research" is dedicated to promoting knowledge about the operation and functioning of distribution channels for products and services. More specifically, it features scholarly research articles which deal with: distribution channel strategy; the design and organization of distribution channels,; the initiation, co-ordination and review of inter-firm channel relationships; and interactions between other elements of the firm's marketing mix and its distribution channel strategy and management. Given the lack of adequate theory development in the channels area at this time, primary emphasis in the annual is given to theoretical articles. However, articles that centre on either problems that exist in doing channels research and ways to solve them or empirical tests of underlying theory also receive high priority.