manufacturer vs wholesaler are terms used in the supply chain industry, and understanding the difference is key for business owners and shoppers. A manufacturer produces goods, often in large quantities, and may sell them directly to consumers or through wholesalers. A wholesaler, on the other hand, purchases large quantities of products from manufacturers and resells them in smaller quantities to retailers or directly to consumers. Businesses that buy products in bulk for resale usually source from wholesalers, while manufacturers typically offer products in bulk for mass production.