The evolution of supply chain relationships: An interpretative framework based on the Italian inter-industry experience

This paper adopts an inter-industry analysis approach to compare the supply chain evolution of the railway and aircraft manufacturing industries, highlighting the fact that these industries are going through a period of enormous change involving the production system as a whole. In particular, the paper identifies the supply relationship evolution in both industries and analyses the vertical relationships, thus showing how the circulation of information and technology is a crucial factor for supply chain efficiency. These elements are addressed so that an interpretative framework may be developed to broaden understanding of the industry-specific factors that affect firms' competitive strategies. The paper synthesises the results of a research program focused on the supply systems of the main Italian companies in the aircraft industry (Alenia Aeronautica) and in the railway industry (AnsaldoBreda). (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.