Questions: A is a group of independent retailers that bands together to set up a jointly owned, central wholesale operation and conduct joint merchandising and promotion efforts
Transcript text: A $\qquad$ is a group of independent retailers that bands together to set up a jointly owned, central wholesale operation and conduct joint merchandising and promotion efforts
Solution
The answer is: retailer cooperative.
Explanation for each option:
Franchise organization: This is a system where a franchisor grants the franchisee the right to use its trademark or trade name as well as certain business systems and processes to produce and market a good or service according to certain specifications. This does not involve independent retailers banding together to set up a jointly owned operation.
Voluntary chain: This refers to a wholesaler-sponsored group of independent retailers that engage in group buying and common merchandising. While similar, it is typically organized by a wholesaler rather than the retailers themselves.
Corporate chain: This is a group of retail outlets that are owned and operated by a single organization. This does not involve independent retailers banding together.
Retailer cooperative: This is a group of independent retailers that band together to set up a jointly owned, central wholesale operation and conduct joint merchandising and promotion efforts. This matches the description given in the question.
IDONT KNOW YET: This is not a valid answer option.
Therefore, the correct answer is "retailer cooperative."