In this Automotive Leaders Podcast episode, Plante Moran Principal Dr. Angela Johnson breaks down the 2026 Working Relations Index® (WRI®), highlighting a first-of-its-kind result: all six North American OEMs improved their supplier relationship scores. The findings reflect a notable shift in how OEMs are engaging suppliers amid continued pressure from tariffs, EV cost recovery challenges, and supply chain disruption. Rather than relying solely on commercial levers, leading OEMs made measurable gains by strengthening communication, accessibility, and day-to-day partnership behaviors — reinforcing the increasing importance of relationship-based performance in a volatile environment.
Dr. Johnson also shares Plante Moran’s perspective on what’s driving these improvements and what comes next, including a structured framework for strengthening supplier relationships as cost pressures and organizational complexity continue to rise. Listen to the podcast to learn how leading OEMs are sustaining progress and where supplier relationships may face their next test.
