This book provides the first summary and critical appraisal of the thinking that currently informs the management of business relationships, from the perspectives of both the buyer and supplier. The authors argue that these approaches are one-dimensional and instead recommend a more holistic approach based on power, interaction and portfolio perspectives. The book provides evidence of how relationships can be aligned and misaligned in practice, using eighteen examples drawn from a variety of business cases and circumstances.

ANDREW COX is CIPS Professor of Business Strategy and Procurement at Birmingham University Business School. He is also Chairman of Robertson Cox Ltd, a competence development consultancy.

CHRIS LONSDALE is Lecturer in Supply Chain Management at the University of Birmingham and has worked with a number of private and public sector organisations.

JOE SANDERSON is Lecturer in Supply Chain Management and Deputy Director of the CBSP.

GLYN WATSON is Lecturer in Supply Chain Management in the CBSP.

Together they have co-authored of a number of books on the subject.