Temu and Shein actively mitigate procurement risks by diversifying their supplier base and using data$-$driven evaluations. Which one of the following strategies should a South African retailer looking to reduce supply chain risks prioritise?

a$.$

Rely exclusively on a single long$-$term supplier to ensure consistency.

b$.$

Minimise supplier engagement efforts and only issue POs when urgent orders arise.

c$.$

Reduce procurement costs by purchasing from the lowest$-$cost supplier regardless of reliability.

d$.$

Use multiple qualified suppliers for key materials to prevent supply disruptions.