German customer-supplier relationships include accountability mechanisms for both parties. Customers have recourse when suppliers fail—complaints, warranties, legal remedies. German customers actively use these mechanisms.
But suppliers also have recourse when customers fail—payment enforcement, relationship termination, reputation effects. If you are a supplier, know that German customers will hold you accountable for quality and reliability. But also know that you can hold customers accountable for payment and reasonable behavior.
The system works because both parties face consequences for failing their obligations. Accountability is bidirectional.
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