Partnering supports supply chain consolidation and continual improvement by fostering collaboration and shared objectives. These benefits align with the strategic goals of building resilient and efficient supply chains.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
Developing a new blood collection system is a complex task that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. A partnership allows the supplier to collaborate closely with a clinical expert, combining their respective strengths to innovate effectively. This collaborative approach is essential for technically complicated supplies where joint development efforts can lead to better outcomes.
Reference:
CIPS L4M6 Study Guide

Routine suppliers typically supply low-value, low-risk items. Maintaining partnerships in such cases is inefficient since alternative suppliers are readily available. Adopting a transactional or adversarial relationship would be more appropriate.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:
* Statement B:A strategic alliance is an agreement between two or more parties to pursue a set of agreed- upon objectives while remaining independent organizations. It is typically managed jointly by the partners to achieve mutual benefits without forming a new legal entity.Wikipedia
* Statement C:In a joint venture, two or more parties create a new, separate legal entity by contributing equity, and they share in the revenues, expenses, and control of the enterprise. This new company is formed to undertake specific business activities.
Reference:
CIPS L4M6 Study Guide

Stationary is a routine item; it is ordered often (as Barry uses different suppliers), it is a low category spend, and low risk to the business' operations (a late delivery of pens isn't going to stop the company making its biscuits). There are lots of questions on Kraljic in the exam - do revise this topic and ensure you understand each of the four quadrants of the matrix (see p.20)