Corporate social responsibility and sustainability practices in B2B markets: A review and research agenda

Abstract

This article provides a review of the literature on corporate social responsibility/sustainability (CSR in short) in business-to-business markets (B2B). Focusing on socially responsible practices and sustainable activities between buyers and suppliers within supply chains and distribution channels, we offer an integrated framework that synthesizes the literature of CSR research in the buyer-supplier contexts. This theoretical framework delineates the important drivers and motives at different levels (institutional, organizational, interorganizational, individual), the key CSR practices (responsible purchasing and sustainable procurement, responsible supplier selection and governance, strategic CSR integration) and the resulting triple bottom line performance outcomes (social, environmental, economic). Drawing on the findings from the literature, we also include the value- and relationship-driving variables that mediate the CSR-performance links as well as the internal and external conditions that moderate these links. Further, our review assesses the diverse theoretical perspectives and methodological issues in the literature to reveal important knowledge gaps. Based on the gaps, a future research agenda with theoretical and managerial implications for CSR research in B2B markets is offered.