The sustainability of the supply chain for fresh potatoes in Britain
Abstract
Purpose
In the context of increased interest in the sustainability of food supply chains, this paper aims to assess perceptions of the relative importance of economic, social and environmental factors as they influence decision making by growers, merchants and retailers, using fresh potatoes in Britain as a case study.
Design/methodology/approach
Following exploratory interviews with key informants, a two‐staged survey of 240 potato growers, 17 potato merchants, and four retailers was carried out to assess perceptions of sustainability. Data analysis used a range of non‐parametric statistical methods.
Findings
Economic and related market factors associated with staying in business and maintaining competitive advantage were the dominant concern for all supply chain participants. Greater importance, however, is now given to social and environmental factors both as influences on decision making and as indicators of business performance. The social capital of the supply chain, as it describes relationships amongst participants, is an important moderator of business uncertainty. Environmental performance, measured in terms of the use of natural resources and the risk of pollution, is driven by a mix of compliance requirements and perceived market drivers.
Research limitations/implications
This research design was constrained by limited access to objective verifiable quantitative data, in part due to commercial confidentiality.
Practical implications
This paper confirms the relevance of sustainability criteria to measure and report supply chain performance.
Originality/value
This paper measures perceptions of sustainability as it affects business decisions in the supply chain. It confirms the need for a set of objectively verifiable indicators to guide and report supply chain performance.
Keywords
Citation
Vasileiou, K. and Morris, J. (2006), "The sustainability of the supply chain for fresh potatoes in Britain", Supply Chain Management, Vol. 11 No. 4, pp. 317-327. https://doi.org/10.1108/13598540610671761
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited