The most common marketing channels are business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B). However, there are also alternative channels that should be discussed. These include business-to-government, consumer-to-consumer, and institutional markets.
Business-to-government (B2G)
Business-to-government marketing encompasses marketing products and services to various levels of the government, such as federal, state, and local . This is also known as "public sector marketing" and is somewhat similar to business-to-business transactions. However, there usually many more restrictions and strict processes in order to gain government contracts. Usually, government organizations post a request for proposal, and businesses respond to them. Most often, the bid with the lowest cost is accepted.
United States Capitol
B2G transactions involve working with government entities.
Consumer-to-consumer
Consumer-to-consumer commerce is the completion of transactions between private individuals or consumers. The increased use of consumer-to-consumer transactions can be directly related to the growth of electronic, online marketplaces. Craigslist and eBay usually involve consumer-to-consumer transactions. There are also older forms of consumer-to-consumer transactions, such as classified ads and garage sales . Often, these types of transactions are for a lower cost than if they were conducted through a business, as there is some added risk that the product will be defective or otherwise be not as expected.
Garage Sale
Garage sales are one type of consumer-to-consumer business.
Institutional Markets
Institutional markets are very similar to typical business-to-business markets. However, many institutional markets are considered nonprofits, such as churches . Institutional markets differ from typical businesses in that they are not motivated primarily by profits or market share. Rather, institutions tend to satisfy somewhat esoteric, often intangible, needs. Also, whatever profits exist after all expenses are paid are normally put back into the institution. Marketers must be aware that these institutions have different goals and restrictions than normal businesses.
Church
Churches, schools, and hospitals are some examples of institutional market consumers.