Walmart initially used a focused cost-leadership strategy to compete only in small communities by using sophisticated logistics systems and efficient purchasing practices to gain a competitive advantage. The response of local competitors was _____ because they _____.
a. rapid; were nimble and flexible.
b. slow; lacked the ability to marshal resources.
c. rapid; perceived gains from responding to Walmart's attack.
d. rapid; had the resources and flexibility compete against Walmart.
Answer: slow; lacked the ability to marshal resources.