The effectiveness of power in supply chain relationships during times of scarcities

Power is widely acknowledged within supply chains and buyer-supplier relationships. Previous research has addressed the effectiveness of power within supply chains and its relationships, and the different types of power that are applicable. However, very little is known about the effectiveness of power in such relationships during times of disruptions, like scarcities. This thesis provides several new insights concerning this gap. Suppliers and buyers were interviewed, and data was collected and analyzed for twelve different cases. These cases showed for different outcomes with one common theme; coercive power proved to be most common and usually effective. The findings narrowed the gap concerning the effectiveness of power during times of scarcities. Moreover, the findings might give managers awareness of power in different situations during disruptions.