Trust in relationships in business clusters

ABSTRACT This study aims to integrate interorganizational relationships (both vertical and horizontal ones) through the perception of trust in businesses' collaborative behavior. We will use as our empirical field the Brazilian furniture industry production clusters situated in the cities of Arapongas, Mirassol, Ubá and Bento Gonçalves. Data were collected through questionnaires which were administered in loco and analyzed using correlation analysis and the Granger causality test. Trust was analyzed in the benevolence dimension and its relationship with commitment. Results demonstrated that there is causality in the horizontal relationship and that there is no causality in relationships between suppliers and clients, nor in relationships between those and competitors. However, there is a strong correlation between trust in clients and horizontal relationships. Therefore, it was verified that the presence of trust in interorganizational relationships is independent and isolated, and not a permanent, routine attitude.