The discussion of the standards for selection of peanuts that will be used in m& ms and the placement of the m& m logo on the candies speaks to which building block of a sustainable competitive advantage:

Which of the following is a competitive benefit experienced by the first mover firm in an industry? a. the first mover will be able to achieve a less steep learning curve. b. the first mover will be able to reduce the switching costs. c. the first mover will not have to patent its products or technology. d. the first mover will be able to reduce costs through economies of scale.