Improving supply chain relations: an empirical case study

This paper reflects on a three‐year EPSRC research project (1994‐1997), called "Implementing Partnering in the Supply Chain", that studied the development of collaboration between two companies, IDV Operations Ireland Limited and Killeen Corrugated and the complex processes involved in fostering their business relationship. The paper illustrates strategic motivation; both corporate and local, of the companies involved. The principal theoretical outcome of the research, “A Partnering Change Model”, provides a structure for analysis. The case describes the outcomes according to this analysis and, finally, conclusions and managerial implications are presented.