(Value chain) Strategic alliances represent an important value chain arrange¬ ment. In many organizations, suppliers are beginning to provide more and more input into customer activities.

a. In the United States, when would a strategic alliance be considered ille¬ gal?

b. What would you perceive to be the primary reasons for pursuing a strategic alliance?

c. You are the manager of a catalog company that sells flowers and plants. With whom would you want to establish strategic alliances? What issues might you want to specify prior to engaging in the alliance?

LO1.