Final answer:
A differentiated competitive advantage refers to a mix of marketing elements that cannot be easily replicated and is viewed as superior to that of competitors. Among the provided options, a well-respected brand name built up over many years stands out as the most relevant form of such an advantage.
Step-by-step explanation:
A differentiated competitive advantage includes a marketing mix that is widely viewed as superior to competitors' offerings and cannot be easily duplicated. In this context, one can consider different forms of competitive advantage:
- A patented invention often provides an exclusive right to use or sell a unique product or service, constituting a strong competitive advantage.
- A well-respected brand name is not easily imitated and represents years of quality and consumer trust, making it a robust form of differentiation.
- Products that stand out due to their physical aspects, unique selling locations, intangible characteristics, and consumer perceptions are examples of differentiated products.
When considering which of the listed options gives a competitive advantage that can't be easily copied, a well-respected brand name that has been carefully built up over many years (e) is the closest to the definition given. Although a patented invention (a) is protected legally, it alone might not influence the perception of a brand's entire marketing mix in comparison to a carefully curated brand reputation.