Strategic alliances and competitive advantages: an analytic view of the supply chain

Abstract

Evidence of strategic alliances between Electrolux do Brasil and its suppliers as sought as well as the related aspects to understand competitive advantages involved. New strategic directives of Electrolux demanded closer cooperation with between purchasing and suppliers to better exploit each relationship. The sample used in this case study was not probabilistic and those participating in the semi-structured interviews were intentionally selected. Dealings with major suppliers were first examined to determine the five relationship aspects whose characteristics are aligned with Strategic Alliance behavior between customers and suppliers as cited by Merli (1998). Interviews with Electrolux buyers and other department stakeholders involved; disclosed the competitive advantages of these relations. Strategic Alliances were identified between Electrolux and some important suppliers and were found to provide competitive advantages for all those involved.