When it comes to business agreements, vertical agreements are often used between parties that operate at different levels of the supply chain. A vertical agreement is a type of agreement between a manufacturer and a distributor or a supplier and a retailer. The purpose of a vertical agreement is to establish the terms and conditions under which products are supplied, distributed, and sold.
One example of a vertical agreement is the agreement between Apple and its authorized resellers. In this case, Apple sets the terms and conditions under which its products can be sold by its authorized resellers. The agreement establishes the amount of markup that the reseller can add to the wholesale price set by Apple, as well as the terms of the warranty and support that the reseller must provide to customers.
Another example of a vertical agreement is the agreement between a pharmaceutical manufacturer and a pharmacy. In this case, the manufacturer sets the terms and conditions under which its medications can be distributed and sold by the pharmacy. The agreement may include provisions such as the price that the pharmacy can charge for the medication, the minimum quantity that must be purchased, and the marketing and promotional activities that the pharmacy must undertake.
Vertical agreements can be beneficial for both parties. They allow the manufacturer or supplier to maintain control over its products, pricing, and distribution, while the distributor or retailer benefits from the established brand recognition and customer loyalty associated with the manufacturer`s products. Vertical agreements can also help ensure that customers receive consistent quality and support, which can benefit both the manufacturer and the distributor or retailer.
However, vertical agreements can also face legal challenges. In some cases, they may be viewed as anti-competitive or as establishing a monopoly within a specific market. It is important for businesses to consult with legal experts and to ensure that their vertical agreements comply with applicable laws and regulations.
In conclusion, vertical agreements are agreements between parties that operate at different levels of the supply chain. They establish the terms and conditions under which products are supplied, distributed, and sold. An example of a vertical agreement is the agreement between Apple and its authorized resellers, as well as the agreement between a pharmaceutical manufacturer and a pharmacy. Vertical agreements can be beneficial for both parties but also require careful consideration to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.