Environmental sustainability can require extensive investment from suppliers as well as firms. Previous studies on this topic focused on the direct relationship between supplier collaboration and environmental performance, yet these studies did not investigate the mechanism behind the relationship. Our study examines the mediating role of innovation on the relationship between supplier collaboration and environmental performance. We tested this model using a sample of 597 Korean firms and found that innovation positively mediated the collaboration effect with suppliers through measurements of strategic, operational, and product development collaboration. These results help us identify the process through which supplier collaboration leads to better environmental performance.

In today’s complex and competitive environment, supply function becomes more a strategic differentiator and a core competency. This function is strongly related to relationship between buyer and supplier. In addition, buyer supplier relationships (BSR) have undertaken considerable changes during the last decade. Although previous empirical research has found the importance of identifying factors that influence BSR, the present paper analyses the factors influencing the successful relationship between buyer and seller. Based on the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), the complex interrelationships between the established factors are inspected. Classification of factors has been carried out based on dependence and driving power by using MICMAC analysis. The present study highlights “Innovation and technology” and “Information exchange” as the most significant factors with high influential power for the BSR. This study aims to aid the decision makers (buyer or supplier) in evolving effective business strategies.

This paper investigates the role played by service quality at supplier-manufacturer dyad in small-medium manufacturing units, and presents a model to establish that contribution of both the supplier and manufacturer towards service quality could lead to satisfaction followed by loyalty. The research design for this study includes a combination of literature survey, exploratory interviews with practitioners, and a questionnaire survey conducted through interview schedule from 120 respondents working in different small-medium manufacturing units of North India. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used for data analysis. The paper develops dual directional scales to evaluate service quality at supplier-manufacturer dyad and tests a set of four propositions. A model showing linkages of manufacturer (manufacturing unit’s) service quality with supplier service quality leading to satisfaction and loyalty is also developed. The model is empirically tested and is found to be fit. This study would be of interest to SME managers particularly engaged in ‘purchase’ function and researchers working on inter-firm supply chains in such units. This study recommends forming strong collaborative relationships with suppliers to achieve a win-win situation.