Hilliard Pharmaceuticals and Ahrens Vitamins, Inc., have high

market commonality, both geographically and in the market

segments in which they compete. Hilliard, the number two firm

in the industry, has undertaken a major strategic attack upon

Ahrens, the market leader. Which of the following statements is

MOST likely to be true?

Select one

A$.$

Ahrens will not respond aggressively since this is a strategic move

and not a tactical action.

As the market leader, Ahrens has little to fear from an attack by

B$.$ Hilliard and will not expend organizational slack on a major

response.

C$.$

Ahrens will respond aggressively because of the high multimarket

contact between Hilliard and Ahrens.

D$.$

Ahrens will respond after a long delay as the nutrition supplement

industry is a slow$-$cycle industry.