Renaud and Adrian tackle the issue of whether partnering with your Chinese factory is a misguided intention. The Western win-win mindset doesn't mean as much in China, and buyers may find that neglecting basic protections such as a manufacturing contract in the name of not upsetting their supplier and having a 'strong partnership' is a big mistake. Here's why...   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction. 01:22 - Why some buyers are attracted to 'partnering up' and what it really means. 05:18 - What is the basis for a good partnership that really makes sense for buyers who develop their own products? 08:24 - How about the relationship for buyers purchasing existing products from an ODM? 13:33 - Why there is an unspoken assumption by Chinese ODM suppliers that if they do you a favor, you will owe them one back. 15:57 - Leaving things open because you want a good partnership with a supplier and don't want to upset them by enforcing a contract is a recipe for trouble. 22:31 - Activities you can take as a buyer that will help to build a good relationship with your supplier. 31:02 - Be aware of your track record with suppliers, because word spreads. 35:00 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Negotiating terms, leverage over suppliers, and describing your needs Responsible & Sustainable Purchasing Practices in Focus Vetting Chinese suppliers (Podcast series) Kraljic Matrix: Sourcing a Strategic Supplier – Are YOU a Good Fit for THEM? Learn how to create a valid manufacturing contract in China OEM, ODM, Contract Manufacturers: Choose your China Supplier Wisely Responsible purchasing practices   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedIn Send us a tweet @sofeast Prefer Facebook? Check us out on FB Contact us via Sofeast's contact page Subscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Google Podcasts TuneIn Amazon Podcasts Deezer iHeartRADIO PlayerFM Listen Notes Podcast Addict Podchaser