Collaboration as a work form : A survey in the agricultural sector

Abstract One of the most common business models for agriculture is according to Lantbrukarnas Riksförbund (2010) that two or more agricultural companies merge and form a company together. To create strong owners and to be competitive there is a recognized need to create relationships between small firms according to Mazzarol , Mamouni Limnios and Reboud (2013). Oerleman and Assouline (2004) argues that it is possible to achieve success in agriculture by following certain strategic priorities. This paper examines why farmers choose to venture into collaboration and whether cooperation are linked to the strategies of the company. The paper also discusses the pros and cons of partnerships in agriculture. A qualitative comparative research design has been used to answer to the topics and we have interviewed respondents from four different agriculture companies, which have been active in some form of cooperation or collaboration. This type of research design is used to investigate and compare two or more cases in order to find correlations and differences.The material from the interviews were processed and compared with the theoretical literature. The study has concluded that the benefits outweigh the disadvantages in terms of collaborations between agriculture businesses. A partnership can be a help in creating cost advantages. The basis of the collaboration is rare in corporate strategy, but the strategy serves as a living document in the company and can be a good help to achieve the goal if there is more work added to the design of the strategy.Organisation, collaboration/cooperation, agriculture, strategy, operating compan