The inclusion of green dimensions in the logistics market : A relationship approach

• PurposeDespite the fact that cooperation is commonly mentioned as important in the greening of supply chains, interaction between logistics service providers and shippers are rarely investigated in green logistics literature. Moreover, the knowledge of how green factors are taken into consideration in relationships on the logistics market appears to be very limited. The purpose of this paper is therefore to analyse how green factors are taken into account in relationships between logistics service providers and shippers. Research approach:This paper is based on a multiple case study, where four dyads between logistics service providers and shippers are researched. Logistics service providers as well as shippers are selected based on their environmental ambitions in logistics as well as in a more general sense. Both a single-case analysis and a cross-case analysis are conducted, based on evidence primarily from interviews with employees that are involved in the specific studied relationships. Relationship dimensions are investigated in order to analyse similarities and differences in matches and gaps of various green categories in the relationships.Findings and Originality:Contrary to previous research, this paper sheds light on how green factors can be taken into account in specific relationships between logistics service providers and shippers. Matches and gaps between green offerings and green demands are identified and explained by relationship characteristics that appear in these specific company interactions. Four propositions are developed and it is suggested that the closeness of a business relationship has an impact on the inclusion of green factors in that relationship.Research impact:This research provides a first indication that relational factors are of importance for the success of “green relationships”. It would be fruitful to extend the research to cover a longer period of time to understand how the inclusion of green factors in logistics market relationship changes over time. Moreover, given that the case studies provide a description of relationships on a national logistics market, it would be beneficial to study other countries’ logistics market as well.Practical impact: The findings of this paper apply to both logistics service providers and shippers who have an ambition to green their logistics operations. Both actors can benefit from knowledge about which relationship dimensions that may be of importance in order to succeed with the greening of logistics service provider-shipper relationships.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Samhällsbyggnadsteknik -- Transportteknik och logistik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Civil Engineering -- Transport Systems and Logistics (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Logistics market

green logistics

collaboration

TECHNOLOGY

TEKNIKVETENSKAP

Publikations- och innehållstyp

vet (ämneskategori)

kon (ämneskategori)