'Purchasing activities will be more closely linked to corporate strategies.'
The performance leaders have moved beyond the traditional purchasing mindset to adopt models for fully leveraging the capabilities of suppliers. Managing the relationships much as they might portfolios, they opt to work closely in mutually trusting relationships with select suppliers. (Monzcka et al. 1998)
Strategic alliances with suppliers will grow in importance and tighter integration between supplier and customer will result in 'blurred edges'. New forms of relationships, including temporary or 'virtual' value chains, will become important and will be mediated by e-business.
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