For backward vertical integration into the business of suppliers to be a viable and profitable strategy, a company:
A. must first be a proficient manufacturer.
B. must be able to achieve the same scale economies as outside suppliers and match or beat suppliers' production efficiency with no drop-off in quality.
C. must have excess production capacity so that it has an ample in-house ability to undertake additional production activities.
D. needs to have a wide product line, so it can supply parts and components for many products.
E. should have a distinctive competence in production process technology and at least a core competence in manufacturing R&D.
Answer: must be able to achieve the same scale economies as outside suppliers and match or beat suppliers' production efficiency with no drop-off in quality.