META-RELQUAL construct validation: a South African study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to test a measurement model of a META-RELQUAL construct based upon South African business-supplier relationships. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected using computer-assisted telephone interviews. The sampling frame consisted of the top 500 South African companies based on revenue. A total of 232 fully completed questionnaires were obtained representing a response rate of 46.4 per cent. Findings – The findings show satisfactory goodness-of-fit measures for the model tested. All the requirements for convergent, discriminant and nomological validity as well as construct reliability were achieved satisfactorily. Practical implications – The study provides a framework of constructs that South African business managers need to take into consideration in order to establish and maintain good relations with their suppliers. Originality/value – This study contributes to theory on relationship marketing and presents the first tested measurement model of the META-RELQUAL construct in Africa.