Using organisational theories to further our understanding of socially sustainable supply chains: The case of fair trade
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to use organisational theories to frame research questions examining how to embed social sustainability in supply chain management (SCM) by focusing on fair trade.
Design/methodology/approach
Drawing on previous organisational theory review papers in SCM, institutional theory and the extended resource-based view have been used as theoretical lenses to develop research questions for further studies.
Findings
The authors developed seven research questions that enable and encourage the further examination of the factors impacting fair trade supply chains, as well as identify approaches to improve social sustainability in SCM practice.
Social implications
As the aim of fair trade is to rebalance inequities inherent in North–South trading relationships, further work in this area has the potential for positive economic, environmental and social impact.
Originality/value
The paper discusses two key themes: whether fair trade is changing SCM practices, and whether fair trade is a source of competitive advantage in supply chains. Using established theory to develop research questions encourages further examination of this important topic.
Keywords
Citation
Moxham, C. and Kauppi, K. (2014), "Using organisational theories to further our understanding of socially sustainable supply chains: The case of fair trade", Supply Chain Management, Vol. 19 No. 4, pp. 413-420. https://doi.org/10.1108/SCM-09-2013-0332
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited