Vertical integration

Vertical integration this occurs when a company produces its own inputs (backward integration) or when a company owns the outlets through which it sells its products (forward integration).

Definitions

According to the Corporate Strategy by Lynch (4th edition),

Vertical integration. This occurs when a company produces its own inputs (backward integration) or when a company owns the outlets through which it sells its products (forward integration).

According to Managerial Accounting by Braun, Tietz (5th edition),

Vertical integration. The acquisition of companies within one's supply chain.