In the process of selecting and buying things, those goods which the customer compares on such bases as suitability, quality, price, and style—such as furniture and clothing (AMA Report Definition Committee (1948) J. Marketing, 13, 2). Makers of shopping goods can limit the number of wholesalers and retailers in a geographic area in order to maintain channel control and enhance the image or exclusivity of their products (Gable et al. (1995) J. Retail. & Consum. Services 2, 4).