1. people who buy and sell goods in large quantities, especially those who trade with foreign countries
2. people who own or operate retail stores

Examples

• The merchants gathered at the port to inspect the incoming cargo.
• Local merchants complained about the new shopping mall affecting their business.
• Medieval merchants traveled long distances to trade spices and silk.
• The merchants association met to discuss holiday shopping promotions.
• Wine merchants from France visited the restaurant to showcase their products.
• Small merchants struggled to compete with large chain stores.
• The merchants displayed their goods at the weekly market.