A source suggested to Rubbermaid the idea of the Sidekick, a litter-free lunch box. Rubbermaid could place some of its plastic containers inside a lunch box and sell the box as an alternative to plastic wrap and paper bags. The source saw this opportunity because of being closer to the consumers than the manufacturer was and, thus, more aware of customer needs. Which of the following was likely the source?
a. The product's distributor
b. The product's competitor
c. Customers
d. A company employee
Answer: a. The product's distributor