What does vertical integration involve?

Vertical integration refers to a strategy where a company expands its operations into different stages of production within the same industry. This can involve either forward integration, where a company takes control of distribution or retail processes, or backward integration, where a company gains control over its suppliers or raw materials. By consolidating various stages of production, a company can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance control over its supply chain. This strategic move allows businesses to streamline operations and potentially increase their competitive advantage in the market.

In contrast, using subcontractors relates to outsourcing rather than integration, merging with direct competitors pertains to horizontal integration, and vertical advertising and marketing approaches do not connect directly to the production processes that vertical integration involves.