In the typology of competitors, which type is described as selling products that satisfy the same needs (for example, cars and boats)?

• A. Brand
• B. Industry
• C. Form
• D. Generic

Answer: (C)

This item tests competition by the form in which a need is satisfied. When two products meet the same underlying need but come in different forms, they compete as form substitutes. Cars and boats both provide transport, but they do so as different forms of the product that delivers mobility. They are substitutes in meeting the mobility need, yet they belong to different product forms, so they are form competitors. Brand competition would involve different brands within the same product form, industry competition covers firms within the same industry, and generic competition covers any products that meet the same need regardless of form. Therefore, the correct type is form competition.