Paradoxical Nature of Coopetition

Abstract This study aims to identify the distinctiveness of the paradoxical nature of coopetition, and its significance in the context of coopetitive relationships. Methodologically, this research follows a qualitative approach, where focus group interview techniques was used to gather data from two groups of representatives of manufacturing firms in Poland. The study findings suggest, that the paradoxical nature of coopetition is a critical element in coopetitive relationships and that paradoxicality is an inherent and indispensable aspect of coopetition, with the evaluation of risks being a complex and multidimensional process. This paper’s original contribution lies in its empirical evidence of the paradoxical nature of coopetition in the manufacturing sector.