The Output of Distributive Systems: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract
A means of measuring the effect of final demand variations and structural changes on the output of the distributive trades is developed. A review of the marketing literature finds conceptual shortcomings that limit the results ofprevious work. General systems theory serves as the basis for trade-flow table analysis, which addresses some of these shortcomings. This type of analysis can be applied in cross-sectional and longitudinal comparative studies.