%0 Journal Article
%A Paz Antolín, María José
%A Ruiz-Gálvez Juzgado, María Eugenia
%T Effects of modular platforms on suppliers companies: evidence from Volkswagen Polo manufacturing in Navarra (Spain)
%D 2021
%@ 1741-038X
%U https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/115567
%X Purpose – This paper analyzes the effects on local suppliers of the adoption of a modular platform, taking into account different supply-chain relations. Design/methodology/approach – The authors’ research follows an interpretive case study methodology based on a theoretical approach that seeks to validate the approach while making conclusions about the case study.Findings – The traditional pyramidal structure of automotive supply chains has been altered by theconsolidation of a much more complex structure, mostly in spatial and geographical terms. The authors find a strong hierarchy resulting from the reinforced market power of the carmaker under study and the respective fragile structural positioning of logistics companies and pre-assemblers. The increased versatility of the assembly plant, considered a consequence of its transition to modular platforms, finds a counterpart in the necessary re-configuration of certain supply relationships.Originality/value – The main contribution of the paper is to connect the defining elements of supply-chain relations with those technical and organizational changes associated with the transition to modular platforms,as well as to analyze changes in the pyramidal structure of the supply chain, from both a spatial and relational perspective
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