BUYER-SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP AND SUPPLIER RESPONSIVENESS: A CASE OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS LISTED IN NAIROBI STOCK EXCHANGE, KENYA

Abstract

This study sought to examine the influence of buyer-supplier relationships on the supplier responsiveness. The population of this study was manufacturing firms in Kenya, forming a total of 90 respondents. The sample size resulted to 48 respondents. Questionnaires were issued out to the respondents in their respective departmental functions. Stratified random sampling technique was used. Primary data was collected using the questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive analysis and correlation techniques. Findings from the study revealed that buyer and suppliers in the manufacturing sector are in collaborative relationships which have enhanced the ability to respond fast and in conformance to the products and service requirements of the buyer. The study recommended that all firms in other sectors should embrace this nature of relationships. Also all firms should try to optimize their information systems in order to enjoy the full benefits of sharing information and hence improved supplier’s ability to respond to needs