Coopetition Strategy: A New Kind of Interfirm Dynamics for Value Creation

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is threefold. First, by proposing a first definition of coopetiton, it aims to move away from the mere recognition of the oversimplified conventional conception to a deeper understanding of the nature of coopetition. By suggesting that coopetition is a matter of incomplete interest (and goal) congruence concerning firms interdependence, the authors stress that coopetition does not simply emerge from coupling competition and cooperation issues, but rather it implies that cooperation and competition merge together to form a new kind of strategic interdependence between firms, giving rise to a coopetitive system of value creation. Second, the researchers advance a typology of coopetition based on the differing explanatory variables of this incomplete interest (and goal) congruence. Third, with the support of a number of coopetition microcases, especially referring to firms operating in the automobile industry, the contribution and the potential of coopetition strategy to the advancement of both strategic management, organization theory and managerial practice was clarified.