A store that primarily sells products from various manufacturers at a discount is best categorized as?

An outlet store is characterized by its focus on selling products directly from manufacturers at discounted prices. These stores typically offer products that are overstock, discontinued items, or slightly irregular goods, allowing them to provide customers with substantial savings compared to regular retail prices. The concept behind outlet stores revolves around the idea of passing savings on to consumers due to the lower operating costs and the direct relationship with manufacturers.

In contrast, a department store generally features a wide range of products from various brands and manufacturers but does not focus primarily on discounted items. Chain stores consist of a network of retail outlets under the same brand, often maintaining consistent pricing and product offerings across locations. Specialty stores are more niche-focused, offering specific categories of products and generally catering to particular customer preferences or interests, but do not emphasize discounted pricing as their primary appeal.

Thus, the identification of an outlet store as the correct answer accurately reflects its defining characteristics of selling discounted products from various manufacturers.