Which term describes conflict between different levels of the same marketing channel?

The term that describes conflict between different levels of the same marketing channel is vertical conflict. Vertical conflict occurs when there are disagreements or competitive tensions between the various stages of a distribution channel, such as manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. For instance, a manufacturer may believe that a retailer is not promoting their product effectively, which can lead to frustration and conflict between these two levels.

Understanding vertical conflict is crucial for marketing professionals because it helps them recognize the dynamics within their supply chains, allowing them to implement strategies to mitigate issues and improve cooperation among the different levels in the channel. This can involve clear communication, setting mutual expectations, and creating incentives for various channel members to work collaboratively toward shared goals.