In 2009, an Agricultural Company Introduced a New Cropping Process

question 24

Multiple Choice

In 2009, an agricultural company introduced a new cropping process which reduced the cost of growing some of its crops. If sales in 2008 and 2009 were steady at $25 million, but the gross margin increased from 2.3% to 3.4% between those years, by what amount was the cost of sales reduced?

• A)$575 000
• B)$325 000
• C)$275 000
• D)$425 000

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Definitions:

Efficient Scale

The level of production at which a firm achieves the lowest average total cost, with economies of scale fully exploited.

Business-Stealing Externality

Negative impacts on existing firms due to entry of new competitors, which can steal customers and reduce profits.

New Firms

Companies that have recently entered the market, bringing innovation, competition, and potentially disrupting established market dynamics.

Existing Firms

Companies or businesses that are currently operational and active within a market or industry.