Outlet

In retail and business, an outlet is a store, branch, or sales location through which a company sells goods or services directly to customers.

In retail, an outlet is a store or sales point where a company sells directly to customers. Outlet stores are a common type, often offering discounted branded merchandise.

What it is

A retail outlet is any physical or online location where a business sells goods or services directly to consumers. It is often used synonymously with a retail branch or store, and can refer to a single location within a company's broader sales network.

Key details: Outlet stores

An outlet store is typically run by a manufacturer or retailer and sells branded goods at reduced prices. These stores often carry surplus stock, returns, closeouts, factory seconds, or products made specifically for the outlet market, making them a common destination for bargain shoppers.

Company-owned outlets

In some business contexts, an outlet refers to a company-owned location operated directly by the franchisor or parent company. This distinguishes it from a franchised outlet owned by an independent operator, and is often used in legal or corporate descriptions of retail networks.