Development of supplier co-operation : Case company in the manufacturing industry

Abstract

The main objective of this thesis is to investigate the development of the supplier co-operation in the case company within the timeframe of two years. This study addresses the question of how the supplier co-operation has developed in the case company. The complementary research question explains the key concepts of the research. The data for this case study was gathered by using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The theoretical framework builds on literature discussing the key concepts. Empirical data collection for the study was conducted by using questionnaires carried out on 2012 and 2013. Knowledge acquired through extensive work experience was applied to complete the questionnaires. The results of the research demonstrate that the key factors of the successful supplier co-operation are trust, information transparency and communication. The supplier co-operation status of the case company was found to be generally at an excellent level and the development to be stable and positive to an extent. The study indicates a few future development targets for the case company. Applicability of the results is difficult to assess as the questionnaires were designed for the purposes of the case company. Significance of this thesis from the case company’s point of view is evident. This research is one part of thelarger entity concerning the new procurement strategy of the case company.