If you think the only marketing advantages big publishers offer are books propped up in stores and magazine ads, try to get your self-published book reviewed by the New York Times. Or any major outlet, for that matter.
The bulk of book marketing is basically enhanced word-of-mouth. It isn't like the branding or image based marketing of other consumer products. Publishers use their influence to get books reviewed by widely read (and trusted) sources, as well as considered by award committees and book clubs.
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Agents will use these publishing platforms for negotiating leverage against large publishers. The conversation will go something like this: “You’re offering my author only 15-20% list on ebooks when I can get them 60-70% list working direct with an ebook distributor like Smashwords or a retailer like Amazon?”
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Huh? Is an agent necessary when self-publishing an ebook through an online retailer?