Buyers’ collective action for sustainability diffusion: a supply chain practice view

Abstract

This study explores business-driven initiatives (BDIs) for sustainability through the lens of the supply chain practice view (SCPV) in order to determine the practices collectively employed to diffuse sustainability in supply chains. We investigate seven BDIs by collecting and analyzing secondary data complimented by interviews with experts. Following the SCPV, we first outline the drivers of forming or joining BDIs in terms of both responding to needs and challenges and in expectation of gains and benefits. Then, we propose a typology of BDI practices, namely setting industry-specific standards, assessments, and audits, capacity building, stakeholder engagement, information and knowledge management, community building, and leadership and advocacy. Finally, we outline the outcomes of BDI practices for members, their suppliers, and the larger community. We elaborate the categories of practices using case BDIs and compare the case BDIs’ structures, the extent of their focus on the social dimensions of sustainability, and their outcomes. The study sheds light on the current state of practices performed in BDIs and the value that can be gained through collective action.