Abstract：Based on 134 papers published in ten top-tier English journals of management from 1984 to 2019, this paper summarizes the theoretical perspectives in firm vertical integration strategy research by the method of structured literature review following the “theoretical toolbox” approach. The result shows that eight theoretical perspectives can be used to explain the motivation of vertical integration, which are transaction cost theory, resource dependence theory, resource-based view, property rights theory, industrial organization theory, real option theory, institutional theory, behavior decision theory. Furthermore, this paper summarizes and compares the core constructs, empirical research results and research development context of these eight theories in explaining the vertical integration strategy. Finally, suggestions concerning the future direction are proposed from research context, research content, theoretical expansion, research methodology.
