The mediating role of trust among communication, satisfaction, and cooperation in the manufacturer-distributor relationship
Published: August 1, 2026
Abstract
This study explores the mediating role of trust among communication, satisfaction, and cooperation in the manufacturer-distributor relationship. This study uses both qualitative and quantitative research methods and surveys 298 plastic product distributors in Ho Chi Minh City. The study’s results show that the communication and satisfaction of the manufacturer positively influence the trust of the distributor in the manufacturer-distributor relationship. Then, the distributor's trust affects the cooperation in the manufacturer-distributor relationship. Thus, the trust acts as an intermediary among communication, satisfaction, and cooperation in the manufacturer-distributor relationship. In addition, the communication has a strong influence on the satisfaction, contributing to strengthening the trust in the manufacturer-distributor relationship.
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