Consolidation in industry refers to the acquisition and merger of different companies in an effort to form a larger, more successful entity. The goal is to improve market share, expand into new markets, optimize resources, and create economies of scale. In general, consolidation can be beneficial for businesses because it helps to increase the efficiency of their operating process, reduce costs and create a competitive advantage over rivals. Further, by forming strategic alliances with other players in the industry—such as suppliers, vendors, and customers—it’s possible for firms to gain better access to information about their competitors. By consolidating their efforts, businesses can become even more successful in the long run.