Supplier relationships can significantly impact a company's quality, timeliness, and competitiveness. Supplier components directly affect product quality and customer satisfaction, while on-time deliveries impact perceptions of reliability. Suppliers can also provide pricing and technological advantages over competitors. Suppliers help with new product development and may offer financial support through loans or investments if the company has proven to be a loyal, paying customer. Building strong relationships includes paying on time, providing lead times, personalizing interactions, and sharing information.