This document discusses different types of middlemen in distribution channels. It defines middlemen as institutions or businesses between producers and final buyers that facilitate the flow of goods. The main types of middlemen discussed are agent middlemen (e.g. brokers, commission agents) and merchant middlemen (e.g. wholesalers, retailers). Wholesalers purchase goods in bulk from manufacturers and sell them in smaller quantities to retailers. Retailers then sell directly to end consumers. The document outlines various functions and classifications of these middlemen.