In the pharmaceutical supply chain, which entity provides warehousing but does not take ownership or direct sales?

• A. Traditional distributor
• B. Repackager
• C. Third-party logistics provider
• D. Dispenser

Answer: (C)

In the pharmaceutical supply chain, the entity that provides warehousing and logistics services without taking ownership of the goods or selling directly to customers is a third-party logistics provider. A 3PL handles storage, inventory management, order fulfillment, and transportation for manufacturers or distributors, but the products’ title stays with the original owner and they don’t engage in direct sales. This distinguishes them from traditional distributors, who buy and own inventory and then sell it to pharmacies or other customers. Repackagers focus on altering packaging and may involve ownership during processing, while dispensers are the points of sale to patients and typically own the stocked products they dispense. So, the best fit for warehousing without ownership or direct sales is the third-party logistics provider.