Manufacturing suppliers range from approved vendors and contract manufacturers (CMs) who only deliver materials and services to complex strategic partnerships. A transactional relationship based primarily on order fulfillment might work well for some companies. However, by taking a CM relationship to the next level of supplier-partner, organizations gain strategic benefits including cost savings, reduced risks, and optimized profits. The right cultural fit and the right-sized partner for your business can play a key role in building this long-term relationship.