The advantages allow these companies to successfully compete in the global marketplace. Powerful synergies are the outcropping of these alliances.
Smaller companies can derive the same advantages through alliance relationships.
I would like to focus on what I call synergistic partnering alliances where competitors can realize great value by building relationships of integrity with one another. Search for the perfect mate. First, talk to your suppliers. They already have a great deal of experience with your competitors. They also have a good handle on your competitors' integrity or lack thereof.