When Moon Star Products Inc. planned to start its operations in United Cadvia, an emerging nation, it realized that it will have to set up its own distribution channels. This would be a risky and an expensive strategic move. The company had an option of hiring a small supply chain management company, Gold Logistics Inc., to reach its ultimate customers. However, this would require Gold Logistics to make huge investments, which would be of no use to it if Moon Star decided to exit the market. Thus, to gain Gold Logistics's confidence, Moon Star purchased 40 percent of the stock of Gold Logistics. What does this scenario best illustrate?
a. Equity alliance
b. Backward vertical integration
c. Farward vertical integration
d. None of the above