Efficient supply chains Multiple Choice rely on maintaining large geographically dispersed inventory warehouses. use common platforms and common components across several products. often operate with relatively low inventory levels. traditionally use expensive, but faster, modes of transportation. emphasize economies of scale by increasing the variety of system configurations offered.

There is a small, family-owned store that sells food and household goods in a small town. the owners have good relations with the community, especially with local farmers who supply much of the food. the farmers aren't organized into a cooperative or union, and the store deals with each individually. suppose the store wanted to buy some farms to control the supply of certain vegetables. how would you classify this strategic move? select one: a. horizontal integration b. forward integration c. backward integration d. concentric integration