Final answer:
Investing in supplier training programs is not an option for attacking the high costs of items purchased from suppliers; instead, companies use vertical integration, negotiate lower prices, or develop alternative sources of supply.
Step-by-step explanation:
The options for combatting high costs from suppliers do not include investing in supplier training programs. Businesses like chemical companies and coffee shops often struggle with the costs of key inputs like petroleum and coffee, which are affected by world market prices. Strategies such as vertical integration, negotiating lower prices, and developing alternative sources of supply are among the methods companies use to reduce expenses and increase profits. The price elasticity of demand is significant in determining whether a business can pass higher costs onto consumers or must absorb them.