Supply chain 4.0: a multi-sector grey systems-based analysis of buyer-supplier relationship development in Brazil

The impacts of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) on supply chains have garnered increasing attention, but limited empirical research explores how buyer-supplier relationships (BSRs) evolve in specific sectors. This article investigates the maturity of Brazilian companies in adapting their BSR under I4.0, focusing on the automotive, chemical, and agribusiness sectors. A survey involving 38 experts in I4.0 applications in supply chains assessed BSR development within these sectors in Brazil. Data were analysed using Grey Fixed Weight Clustering, enabling the inclusion of uncertainty in the evaluation. The findings highlight that electronic and automated communication modes are prevalent across all sectors, reflecting the growing integration of digital technologies in supply chains. Sector-specific factors, including market dynamics and regulatory standards, significantly influence BSRs, emphasising the need for tailored management strategies. The maturity analysis underscores the critical role of trust, collaborative partnerships, and automation in enhancing BSRs within I4.0 environments. This research provides empirical evidence of I4.0's impact on BSRs, offering insights for stakeholders to prioritise efforts and formulate strategies addressing technological and regulatory challenges. By advancing conceptual understanding of maturity and offering targeted strategies to improve BSRs, it enables researchers and managers in future endeavours related to digital transformation of supply chains.