Explain the difference between the vertical and horizontal integration

Growth and expansion are the two needs of every firm, irrespective of its size and nature. Firms can grow and expand themselves by way of integration. There are two major forms of integration, i. e. Horizontal Integration and Vertical Integration. Horizontal Integration is a kind of business expansion strategy, wherein the company acquires same business line or at the same level of value chain so as to eliminate competition to a greater extent.

Conversely, Vertical Integration is used to rule over the entire industry by covering the supply chain. It implies the integration of various entities engaged in different stages of the distribution chain.