Name a type of indirect competition.

Indirect competition refers to companies or products that do not directly compete with one another in terms of specific products or services, but still vie for the same customer needs or desires. Recognizing alternative products that meet the same customer needs illustrates this concept perfectly. For instance, a customer looking for a cold beverage might choose between soda, iced tea, or bottled water. While each of these products is different, they all fulfill the same general need: thirst quenching.

In contrast, large retail chains and online marketplaces do serve as sales venues but do not provide the same type of product competition amongst those selling similar items. Direct product competitors are those that offer very similar products and directly clash in the marketplace, which does not illustrate indirect competition. Therefore, understanding that alternative products address similar needs while not being the same products highlights why this answer captures the essence of indirect competition effectively.