What is Vertical Integration?

• A. A marketing strategy for branding
• B. A single-segment production model
• C. Outsourcing everything
• D. A business strategy of operating in more than one segment of the value chain

Answer: (D)

Vertical integration means a company controls multiple stages of the production and distribution process within the same industry. By owning or controlling more than one part of the value chain, a firm can coordinate activities, secure supply, and often reduce costs or improve quality. In diamonds, this could be a company that mines diamonds, also operates cutting and polishing facilities, and sells directly to retailers or consumers. This contrasts with focusing on just one production stage or outsourcing other stages to separate suppliers. The essence is spanning more than one segment of the value chain.