Sparkle LLC is a medium-sized company with a long tradition in tool production with headquarters near Duderstadt, Germany. The company specialized in the manufacture of diamond tools many years ago to meet demand. The product range includes diamond tools for grinding, polishing, profiling, turning, drilling, sawing, etc. With this assortment Sparkle LLC addresses enterprises, which process and work hard metal, glass, ceramics, porcelain, natural stone, artificial stone etc. Sparkle LLC can also respond to the special needs of individual companies within its product range by means of flexible, modern production techniques. a) The Sparkle LLC has so far organized the distribution exclusively through selected specialist dealers. However, the marketing manager is no longer satisfied with the sales development and the willingness to cooperate of his dealers and is considering setting up own Sparkle branches in connection with the employment of sales representatives. What advantages does he expect from direct sales? What disadvantages could arise? b) From Sparkle LLC's point of view, give a brief overview of the factors influencing the choice of distribution channels