Vertical integration in media refers to controlling which three levels?

• A. Production, distribution, and exhibition
• B. Production, advertising, and distribution
• C. Content creation, marketing, and sales
• D. Licensing, distribution, and curation

Answer: (A)

Vertical integration in media means a company controls multiple stages of turning a creation into audience access. The three levels are production (creating the content), distribution (getting that content to outlets and viewers through sales, licensing, and marketing), and exhibition (the platforms where audiences actually see the content, such as theaters or streaming services). When one company spans all three, it can coordinate the entire lifecycle—aligning release timing, marketing, and revenue—often boosting efficiency and profits. This triad distinguishes these stages from other activities like general advertising or licensing alone, which don’t constitute controlling the full path from creation to presentation.