Under what circumstances might a long-term strategic alliance with a key supplier enable a company to capture most of the benefits associated with vertical integration, without bearing the associated risks and costs?

It would be better to enter a new business area by acquisition when a company is considering implementing horizontal integration or when they are pursuing vertical integration and the company is lacking the distinctive competencies to establish a quick presence and reputation. Acquisition allows a company to purchase quicker than it takes to establish its own company that is similar. Also, acquisitions are less risky because there is less commercial uncertainty and the company is able re-search the turn get are interested and get have unpublished reputation, lastly, they are attractive because there are high barriers to entry