A low$-$cost leadership strategy, can only be successful if the company $\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.$

options:

performs value chain activities more cost$-$effectively than rivals and be proactive in revamping the company's value$-$chain to eliminate 'nonessential' cost$-$producing activities

outsource the majority of value chain activities to lower cost nations with fewer regulations

eliminates wholesale and retail intermediaries and instead sells directly to users of their product or service

pursue backward or forward integrations to deter suppliers or buyers with considerable bargaining power and leverage