Options for attacking the high costs of items purchased from suppliers do not include

Multiple Choice

collaborating closely with suppliers to identify mutual cost$-$saving opportunities.

integrating backward into the business of high$-$cost suppliers and making the item in$-$house so as to better control the cost.

raising prices to customers $($in order to cover the high costs$).$

switching to lower$-$priced substitute inputs.

pressuring suppliers for more favorable prices.