Retail versus Direct Purchases?

[Gardensnake]

Hi all,

I've got a question that is primarily directed to those individuals that are in the industry but I invite all opinions. What do you think is more beneficial to your business, individuals buying directly from you via cons or a website, or individuals buying your products from a retailer? I can see arguments for both. Direct sales, means more money straight to the individual. There is a minimal money going to a "middle man" and there is more profit for the creator. On the other side, sales through a retailer generates much less money directly for the creator, but potentially means greater exposure for the product and possibly more sales of the product but not as much money for the creator.

I'm really curious to hear what those in the industry feel.

Thanks,

William