What does "economies of scale" refer to?

"Economies of scale" refer to the cost advantage that a business can achieve as it increases its production levels. When a company produces more of a good or service, it can spread its fixed costs over a larger number of units, effectively reducing the cost per unit. This phenomenon often occurs because larger production volumes may lead to more efficient use of resources, better bargaining power with suppliers, and the potential to invest in more advanced technologies that further lower costs.

As production increases, a firm may also benefit from specialization, where workers or processes become more proficient at what they do, ultimately contributing to a decrease in overall costs. This concept is crucial in strategic business decisions, as it can provide firms with a competitive advantage through lower pricing or improved margins. The other options do not accurately encompass the concept of economies of scale: they either focus on negative implications or aspects unrelated to production cost advantages.