Meditech Pharmaceuticals is a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer with a strong presence in the production of generic drugs. Their product line includes a wide range of medicines, from antibiotics to pain relievers. Meditech operates several production facilities and distribution centers across the country. Their mission is to provide high-quality, affordable medications to patients worldwide. HealthCare Distributors Inc. (HCDI) is a well-established healthcare distribution company specializing in delivering pharmaceutical products to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. They have an extensive logistics network, with a fleet of distribution vehicles and a vast distribution center network. HCDI's primary goal is to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of medical supplies to healthcare providers, contributing to improved patient care. Meditech Pharmaceuticals and HealthCare Distributors Inc. (HCDI) are considering a merger. This strategic move would allow Meditech to gain better control over the distribution and supply chain of their pharmaceutical products. By integrating with HCDI, Meditech could ensure the seamless and timely delivery of their medicines to healthcare providers. Simultaneously, HCDI could secure a consistent and quality supply of pharmaceuticals directly from Meditech, reducing its reliance on third-party suppliers. REQUIRED i) Determine the nature of the merger that the two companies are attempting to initiate (2 marks) ii) List and explain the benefits of the merger determined in part (i) to both companies (6 marks) iii) Identify and discuss potential disadvantages or demerits that the merger between Meditech Pharmaceuticals and HealthCare Distributors Inc. could pose. Explain the implications of these disadvantages on the merged entity, its employees, and the broader pharmaceutical and healthcare distribution industry (6 marks) iv) Outline and discuss key strategies that the merged entity, comprising Meditech Pharmaceuticals and HealthCare Distributors Inc., could introduce to effectively mitigate the disadvantages associated with the merger. (6 marks)