Supplier power refers to the ability of suppliers to exert pressure on buyers in an industry. According to Porter's five forces framework, supplier power is one of the key competitive forces that influence profitability within an industry. Strong suppliers are able to raise prices, lower quality, and reduce availability, imposing costs on buyers. Strong supplier power makes an industry more competitive and decreases buyer profit potential. Factors that determine supplier power include supplier concentration, switching costs for buyers, the ability of suppliers to forward integrate, and the availability of substitute products. When these factors increase supplier bargaining power, they heighten competitive pressures within an industry.