What Are the Effects of Backward Integration?

 


backward integration is a form of vertical integration, enables businesses to control their suppliers, and thus improve the supply chain efficiency. To gain a competitive edge over rivals and save money firms join with their suppliers and purchase them. In certain markets, this may cause monopolies or antitrust violations. Many organizations can benefit from this approach, however they should be aware of the potential risks that come by backward integration.

Forward Integration

When a company chooses to take over the tasks which its suppliers used to perform this is referred to as backward integration. When a business purchases the company that provides its customers in raw material, items or services, this occurs. A company that makes knitwear and buys the wool it needs from a farm, for instance it would integrate backwards if it acquired the sheep farm. Backward integration lets businesses be in complete control of areas of the supply chain and reduces inefficiencies and the cost. The firm believes that controlling certain parts that comprise its supply chain instead of relying upon outsiders that it does not have control, can cut costs, increase margins, and distribute more quickly and increase the number of customers it serves.

BIP Advantages for Backward Integration

Backward integration offers a number of advantages one of that is total control. A business will be in complete control from the moment it acquires raw materials to the point it can sell the finished product, contingent on the suppliers it's selected. The corporation is in charge of its raw material's quality, their quality, speed at that they are transformed into finished products, as well as the speed at that they are provided to customers in this manner. Backward integration is an advantage in terms of competitiveness. If a supplier provides multiple businesses, a company who purchases the supplier will gain an advantage over the competition since the rival will need to locate a new supplier.

Backward Integration Benefits

There are many challenges and risks that come in backward integration. companies that aren't able to effectively control their supply chains following buying suppliers are at risk of loss of money and making lower-quality products. There is a chance that cost of managing suppliers aren't in good interests of the company or that the business isn't equipped to produce goods. Additionally, buying suppliers' competitive advantages could cause a lack of competition, which can lead to a lack in innovation. In addition, buying the services of a company requires integration with the personnel of its employees, which can be difficult if there are conflicts of cultures or unwelcome bureaucracy.

An Example from the Real World

Netflixis among the most effective and latest examples of backward integration. Netflix was initially an online rental service for DVDs, users logging onto their online accounts choosing films, and then receiving them by mail. As the Internet changed and the capabilities of streaming videos grew, Netflix transitioned to offering episodes and movies through streaming services. Netflix reached agreements for licensing with media companies to make these movies and episodes accessible. Netflix eventually integrated backwards by producing its own content which allowed them to make more revenue. This reduced the dependence of the company on artists from outside and satisfied the demand of its clients for more exclusive content. Netflix's original content and not licensed programming is the primary draw for its users in the past.

Conclusion

In your strategy for growth As part of their business plan, businesses must carefully evaluate the advantages and risks of an forward integration approach. Midsized businesses should be aware as they may not be ready to take on the added danger of purchasing suppliers. Backward integration, on other hand, can be advantageous when controlling suppliers results in greater profit margins and also ensures the availability of the materials needed to manufacture.

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