RPM and Vertical Integration With Upstream Competition and Noncontractible Efforts
Journal of Industrial Economics
Published online on May 04, 2026
Abstract
["The Journal of Industrial Economics, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\nWe study RPM and vertical integration in a common agency setting with two differentiated manufacturers and one retailer, where consumer demand depends on both the manufacturers' and retailer's noncontractible efforts. Under vertical separation, the adoption of maximum RPM by both manufacturers is an equilibrium and intensifies competition, since manufacturing margins are positive to incentivize manufacturing effort. This benefits consumers and may lower industry profits relative to a scenario where RPM is not available. Vertical integration between the retailer and one of the manufacturers increases industry profits and, when retail effort is also important, may benefit consumers by mitigating double marginalization.\n"]