What characterizes horizontal growth according to the Ansoff Matrix?

Horizontal growth, as defined by the Ansoff Matrix, specifically refers to a strategy where a business expands its operations by entering new markets or increasing its market share within existing markets. This approach often involves acquiring or merging with other companies, thereby broadening the company's reach without changing its product line.

In the context of the Ansoff Matrix, this strategy is distinguished from other types of growth. Introducing new products falls under product development, enhancing customer relationships is related to customer retention or service improvements, and reducing operational costs pertains to efficiency strategies, not growth strategies. Therefore, the essence of horizontal growth is centered on the expansion aspect, making the chosen answer aligned with the concept's specific characteristics in the framework.