Final answer:
When PetSmart acquires very successful local pet stores, it exemplifies horizontal integration, which aims to increase market share and economies of scale by acquiring similar companies.
Step-by-step explanation:
If PetSmart began to acquire very successful local pet stores, this would be an example of c. horizontal integration. Horizontal integration refers to the process of a company increasing its market share by acquiring similar companies in the same industry. This strategy can potentially lead to increased market power and economies of scale.
In contrast, vertical integration involves a company expanding its control over various stages of production and distribution within the same industry. The options listed as digital integration, channel power, and multichannel integration refer to different concepts related to marketing channels and online business strategies.