A savvy business strategy where a company expands its operations by taking control of different stages of its supply chain, either by acquiring suppliers (backward integration) or distributors (forward integration). Think of it as a power move to streamline processes, cut costs, and enhance control—like being the captain of your own ship from raw materials to the end consumer. By consolidating operations, businesses can reduce reliance on external partners, boost efficiency, and maximize profits. It’s all about owning the journey, from start to finish, and keeping all the good stuff in-house.