The evolution of relationships between car manufacturers and France-based component suppliers in the context of deep crisis and accelerating technical change

After the 2008 to 2009 crisis, suppliers and subcontractors to the French automotive industry were in a depressed situation and a consolidation by function seemed to be the only option to ensure the survival of small- and medium-sized suppliers. Relationships between OEMs and suppliers have not changed significantly and satisfactorily for the vast majority of suppliers and subcontractors: a rebalancing in favour of suppliers appears inevitable and urgent. Even if the prospects of major technological changes are still distant, they represent real opportunities for development over time but also a threat to businesses in the traditional mechanical sector. OEMs and suppliers should be prepared to innovate to meet these challenges but also because innovation is the best source of competitiveness and therefore survival.