When requesting a correction, please mention this item's handle: RePEc:eme:jopppp:jopp-06-2019-0035.

You can help correct errors and omissions. Suggested CitationĪll material on this site has been provided by the respective publishers and authors.

Originality/value - The paper demonstrates that the Kubler-Ross model of grieving has utility for understanding reactions to loss in a public procurement context. Moreover, they use their agency in pursuit of their own interests, whether through political bargaining, lobbying or editorials. Social implications - Elected representatives, the media and civic society groups have vested interests in the outcome of contract competitions. Practical implications - By debriefing unsuccessful bidders and listening to their viewpoint, public buyers can help to assuage the anger that accompanies contract loss. Further case research is warranted to test the external validity of the results. Research limitations/implications - The study is based on a single case. Finally, acceptance was indicated by De La Rue pursuing new opportunities in the product authentication market. Depression set in after De La Rue admitted it would not appeal. An attempt to bargain was made during the standstill period. Next came anger directed at the UK Government. De La Rue initially exhibited denial by vowing to appeal the decision. Findings - The findings show that De La Rue and its supporters passed through the five stages of grief in response to their loss. Secondary data from corporate publications, news reporting, parliamentary debates and trade union press releases is used to compile the case. The hypothesis is tested using the recent UK passport contract in which the British supplier, De La Rue, lost to the Franco-Dutch supplier, Gemalto. Design/methodology/approach - The hypothesis is that contract loss triggers a five-stage grieving process, as predicted by the Kubler-Ross model.

Reactions to contract loss are yet to be properly studied in public procurement. Purpose - This paper aims to examine how firms react to the loss of a major government contract.

Install publisher 2019