Modelling distributor firm and manufacturer firm working relationships

Date

2005

Authors

Medlin, C.

Editors

Purchase, S.

Advisors

Journal Title

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Type:

Conference paper

Citation

Proceedings of the Australia and New Zealand Marketing Academy Conference (ANZMAC), held in Fremantle, Western Australia 2005

Statement of Responsibility

Conference Name

Australia and New Zealand Marketing Academy Conference (2005 : Fremantle, W.A.)

Abstract

Past research has characterized business relationships using perceptual and sentiment constructs. This research has relied on an underlying assumption that ‘structure’, in the form of channel role, is more likely to explain firm behaviour in relationships than ‘strategy’ or any other formulation. A re-examination of the literature throws doubt on this assumption. An empirical study is used to explore an alternate hypothesis, with differentiated local models of distributor and manufacturing firms’ working relationships being found using a clusterwise regression technique. The results suggest that inter-firm cooperation is more effective than a self-centred approach to achieving relationship performance. In addition the results suggest that relationship ‘strategy’ is more important than ‘structure’ in modelling working relationships. Finally, directions for further research and management implications are considered.

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Dissertation Note

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Rights

© ANZMAC

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