Correct Answer: Suppliers

Solution : The correct answer is (A) Suppliers

Suppliers are a component of the competitive environment. The competitive environment includes entities and factors that directly impact a company's competitiveness and its ability to serve its customers. Suppliers are one of these entities as they provide the resources and materials necessary for a business to produce its goods or services, and they can influence a company's cost structure and product availability. While customers, economic conditions, and technological advancements are important factors, they are typically considered elements of the broader business environment rather than the competitive environment.