This book is the first to apply the network approach to the analysis of business relationships in a global context. Drawing on a wide variety of international case. studies, a `network approach' is developed, giving rise to far-reaching theoretical and practical managerial insights and a different way of conceptualizing companies within markets. New angles emerge on traditional problems of business management, with some novel implications which will challenge established ways of analysing business markets. Building on previous research in the area, this thought-provoking work will be of great interest to researchers and students in industrial marketing, business strategy and purchasing, as well as to marketing specialists and consultants.