This paper aims to ascertain the current state of collaborative logistics in the Brazilian supermarket retail chain through two quantitative studies: one concerning collaboration elements and logistics performance, and the other quantitative study focusing on collaboration elements and transaction costs. All of these elements are identified among the partners. The methodology consists of a qualitative analysis (using participative observations) and a quantitative analysis consisting of 125 representatives from 87 suppliers who evaluated Brazil's four largest retailers. From statistical tests and regression analysis, the results confirmed that some collaborative elements positively influence the logistics performance of the firms, mainly when it concerns a differentiated logistic performance (urgent deliveries and deliveries in periods of high demand). Interpersonal integration contributes most to a higher intensity of collaboration, followed by strategic integration and tactical integration. Moreover, the increase in strategic collaboration and joint actions (tactical integration elements) contributes to the reduction in uncertainties between the participants and these joint actions also help to increase investment in specific assets.
Collaboration elements; Logistic performance; Transaction costs; Retail
