Comparative analysis of cooperative purchasing centers: problems and solutions

Abstract

The aim of the study is to identify the problems faced by cooperative purchasing centers during the different stages of their life cycle. Design/methodology: The methodology used is the case study. The cases chosen correspond to two specific cases revealing extreme examples. On one hand the CCFACC, an incipient Argentine cooperative purchasing center, and, on the other, Coop Italia, a model with a long history in the market, with proven results and projections of great growth. In addition, it is interesting that each of the cases is located on different contexts and continents. The identification of the problems of the cooperative purchasing centers differentiated by stage of the life cycle, as well as the ways of solving them, if found, can contribute to improve the performance of the cooperative movement. The problems experienced by cooperative purchasing centers are clearly identified in order to be able to meet them and take action to avoid in the case of a new experience. The present research has contributed to the bibliography about cooperative purchasing centers located in different contexts and in different phases of the life cycle, distinguishing the problems faced and the ways to solve them.