Which of the following is a function of channel intermediaries?

Channel intermediaries play a crucial role in the distribution process by bridging the gap between producers and consumers. Their primary functions include stocking goods, which involves holding inventory in warehouses or retail locations to ensure that products are available for consumers when they are needed. This minimizes delays and optimizes product availability.

In addition to stocking goods, channel intermediaries also provide customer service, which is essential for addressing consumer inquiries, handling product returns, and offering assistance in finding the right products. This level of service enhances the overall shopping experience and helps to build customer loyalty.

The other options listed do not accurately describe typical functions of channel intermediaries. For instance, while some intermediaries may influence consumer perceptions, they do not directly set consumer buying behavior. Moreover, facilitating market research is often a separate function handled by market research firms or marketing departments rather than intermediaries themselves. Similarly, setting manufacturing prices is an internal function that typically falls under the purview of producers or manufacturers, not intermediaries in the distribution chain.