What action is likely to effectively reduce manufacturing costs per pair produced?

Pursuing maximum production capacity is the likely action to effectively reduce manufacturing costs per pair produced due to the principle of economies of scale. When a company increases its production volume, it can spread fixed costs—such as rent, utilities, and administrative expenses—over a larger number of units, lowering the cost per unit. Additionally, with higher output, there may be opportunities to negotiate better rates for bulk materials and gain operational efficiencies that reduce variable costs per unit as well.

By maximizing production capacity, the company can fully utilize its resources, machinery, and workforce, leading to enhanced productivity and lower costs associated with each individual pair produced. This increased efficiency typically results in a competitive advantage, allowing the company to offer better pricing or higher margins.

The other options do not effectively lead to reduced costs per unit. Reducing production volume typically increases costs due to a higher allocation of fixed costs to fewer units. Hiring additional workforce might increase costs without necessarily improving productivity, especially if the workforce is not optimally utilized. Investing in marketing efforts, while important for driving sales, does not directly affect manufacturing costs and could further strain resources if not aligned with production output.