Vertical coopetition in buyer-supplier relations

Whereas most research on coopetition has looked at horizontal coopetition between firms at the same level of the value chain, this chapter outlines the concept of vertical coopetition, which occurs in buyer–supplier relations. Vertical coopetition can be based on either direct or indirect competition between a buyer and a supplier. Drawing on recent discussions from the supply chain management literature, this chapter demonstrates the value of applying a triadic perspective on vertical coopetition. After contrasting vertical with horizontal coopetition, the chapter concludes with avenues for further research in this field.