Exploring long-term relationships in vegetable supply chains

For buyers, developing long-term relationships with suppliers can improve access to markets and provide more reliable market information [8]. Customers can anticipate improved access to a more reliable supply of production inputs [4, 5]; improved product quality and performance [2, 9]; a higher level of technical interaction in the form of potential product adaptations and technical assistance [6]; and greater support from suppliers in developing and launching new products [9, 10].