A theoretical and practical contribution to supply chain robustness

This doctoral thesis develops four individual research studies on supply chain robustness. The overall goal of these studies is to develop a conceptual framework of supply chain robustness by consolidating current literature in the field, and, drawing on that framework, to construct a schema of determinants that facilitate robustness in buyer-supplier relationships. This research is motivated by an observed increase of supply chain disruptions, as well as an increasing trend towards outsourcing and a subsequent rise in the importance of supply chain relationships. It methodologically builds on two literature studies and two empirical studies. The thesis develops refined methodology guidelines for conducting literature reviews in supply chain management, proposes a conceptual framework for supply chain robustness putting forward a formal definition of the construct, and identifies and validates four relational determinants that facilitate robustness against disruptions in buyer-supplier relationships.