Beyond dissolution: a lifecycle model of supplier relationship management

Purpose Supplier relationship management (SRM) remains insufficiently understood from a lifecycle perspective. While existing research provides valuable insights into individual SRM activities, it offers limited understanding of how supplier relationships evolve over time and how digitalization supports their management. This study aims to address these gaps by extending the supplier relationship framework of Möller et al. (2006). Design/methodology/approach The study is based on 43 semi-structured interviews with practitioners across multiple industries. This qualitative approach provides in-depth insights into how companies design, manage and digitalize supplier relationships across different phases. Findings The analysis confirms the three established SRM phases – out-supplier management, in-supplier management and in-supplier dissolution management – and extends the framework by identifying two additional phases: sleeping and reactivation. The findings show that SRM is a dynamic and iterative lifecycle characterized by recurring transitions between phases. Furthermore, digital technologies are embedded throughout the lifecycle, supporting information continuity, coordination and more consistent decision-making. Originality/value This study extends Möller et al. (2006) SRM framework by developing an empirically grounded lifecycle model that incorporates sleeping and reactivation phases. It further advances SRM theory by conceptualizing recurring relational and digital touchpoints as mechanisms that support transitions across the supplier relationship lifecycle. Finally, the study contributes to the digitalization literature by demonstrating that digital technologies function as integral governance mechanisms throughout the lifecycle rather than as isolated support tools.