A manufacturer makes products by transforming or assembling materials and components.
How it works in retail
It may produce its own designs or manufacture to another company’s specifications. Brands and retailers can work directly with a manufacturer or through intermediaries.
A retail example
A clothing factory cuts and sews garments to a brand’s approved patterns, materials and measurements.
What to keep in mind
A seller calling itself a manufacturer may also use subcontractors. Understanding the actual production arrangement helps assess capacity, traceability and quality control.
Examples are illustrative. Terminology and measurement conventions can vary by business and market.