Can the Manufacturer sustain Intensive Distribution Intensive distribution often creates lackluster sales support, defection of downstream channel members, and even bait-and-switch tactics. How can the manufacturer rem edy this situation? One solution is contractual: The manufacturer can attempt to impose on the channel member a contract demanding certain standards of conduct(for example barring bait-and-switch) and then bring legal action against offenders. This is an expensive route: It requires documentation(e.g., of recurring bait-and-switch tactics) as well as legal resources. This muscular method of implementation is likely to alienate other channel members and to generate unfavorable publicity for the brand. Another solution is to invest in a pull strategy to build brand equity. Customer preference may then oblige the channel member to carry the brand, pay a high whole- sale price, charge a low retail price, and make up the low gross margin elsewhere. This urategy frequently is used to great effect in fast moving consumer goods.? The con- sumer demand for either Coca-Cola or Pepsi forces most channel members to carry one if not both of these brands. Similarly, in consumer entertainment durables, Sony brand equity enables the supplier to offer its goods in many types of channels and forces almost all members of any type of channel to carry them because consumers would question whether an electronics outlet that does not carry Sony is a legitimate seller In general, channel members surrender and carry those intensively distributed brands that have high brand equity. However, this strategy is extremely costly, requiring the manu cturer to make continuing, massive investments in advertising and promotion. Even this strategy has its limits. It is tempting for a manufacturer with a sought after brand to overproduce and then load up channel members with more product than they can sell(channel stuffing). Inevitably, the brand ends up in too many place and too many different types of places. The brand's positioning becomes unclear. Downstream channel members slash prices to move stock. Ultimately, the brand dilutes its equity, which can topple the heads of companies. For example