Sustainable Supplier Research Articles

Sustainable supplier selection among supermarket’s fresh fruits and vegetable supply chains based on circular practices in India

Sustainable supplier selection among supermarket’s fresh fruits and vegetable supply chains based on circular practices in India

Sustainable Supplier Selection Criteria for HVAC Manufacturing Firms: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective Using the Delphi–Fuzzy AHP Method

Sustainable Supplier Selection Criteria for HVAC Manufacturing Firms: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective Using the Delphi–Fuzzy AHP Method

Evaluation of Supplier Sustainable Development Programs Using the HFLTS-QFD Method

Objective: This study proposes a decision model for evaluating sustainable supplier development programs (SSDPs) using the HFLTS-QFD technique, which is a combination of Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Term Sets (HFLTS) with the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method. Theoretical Framework: The implementation of supplier development programs is important to improve supplier performance in aspects related to economic, environmental and social aspects. The evaluation of these programs is necessary to decide on their continuation or discontinuation, as well as to direct the allocation of resources. Method: The bibliographical research supported the definition of the requirements and criteria used for the evaluation of SDPs. The implementation of the model was done using MS Excel® software. The application in an illustrative case involving the evaluation of five SDPs allowed us to demonstrate the applicability of the model. Results and Discussion: The most relevant criteria were organization strategy, social responsibility, employee training and environmental management. The programs with the best classification were SDP4 and SDP5. Research Implications: The proposed model supports the selection of criteria considering their relative weights and the degree of difficulty in collecting data from suppliers when evaluating each PDFS. It also has the capacity to assist group decision-making, enabling the assignment of weights to decision-makers. Originality/Value: Unlike previous models for evaluating PDFS, which use economic or environmental criteria, the proposed model considers criteria related to the three dimensions of the Triple Bottom Line, in addition to allowing the use of linguistic expressions to deal with decisions under hesitation and uncertainty.

A Novel Model for Sustainable Supplier Selection in the Paint and Coating Industry

Given the significance of sustainability in the current global market, doing a comprehensive and current assessment of a supplier’s sustainability might be beneficial for improving a firm’s competitiveness. This study aims to develop sustainable supplier selection criteria, examine their interrelationships, and determine the critical criteria in the paint and coating industry. This study employed a focus group discussion (FGD), the Delphi method, a decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory-based analytical network process (DANP), and a measurement of alternatives and ranking according to compromise solution (MARCOS). The findings indicated that most sub−criteriasub−criteriaexperts agreed that 11 economic sub−criteria, five environmental sub−criteria, and three social sub−criteria should be considered when selecting a sustainable supplier. The results show that the most influential criteria are environmental criteria, while the critical criteria are social criteria. In addition, “Service” (E4), “Green Material” (L3), and “Health and Safety” (S1) sub−criteria should be considered to assess the supplier because they have high relation and prominence. Globally, the top five highest weighted sub−criteria are “Respect for the Law” (S2), “Health and Safety” (S1), “Worker’s Social Rights” (S3), “Waste Management” (L5), and “Environment Management System” (L1). We practically selected 12 providers from the paint and coating sector to assess the scheme’s practicality. This work introduced a novel model for selecting a sustainable supplier that helps industries understand their core criteria and sub−criteria. This will enhance the industry’s competitiveness and sustainability by evaluating suppliers based on economic, environmental, and social criteria.

Multi-criteria group decision analytics for sustainable supplier relationship management in a focal manufacturing company

In the context of sustainable development, while the benefits of incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into supplier management have been widely discussed in recent years, a significant gap in the literature remains. Specifically, there is a lack of a standardized decision analytics framework for ESG-oriented supplier relationship management (SRM) processes in the manufacturing sector. To address this gap, this study introduces a multi-criteria supplier analytics framework (MCSAF) towards sustainable SRM. Through referring traditional supplier evaluation criteria as well as emerging ESG criteria, a novel decision hierarchy for supplier segmentation is developed. The proposed system utilizes the Bayesian best-worst method and the Canopy-k-means clustering algorithm to formulate different supplier segments for strategic development. The proposed MCSAF has been successfully implemented in a German solar water pump manufacturer. The results show that the five highest-ranked criteria are ‘Quality’, ‘Impact and importance on product quality and business growth’, ‘Environmental policy/management’, ‘Customer and product responsibility’, and ‘Risk and crisis management’. 52 suppliers are categorized into five segments, leading to the formulation of ESG-enabled supplier development strategies are subsequently formulated. The successful implementation of the MCSAF showcases its effectiveness in advancing ESG practices in sustainable supplier management.

The effect of social responsibility on supplier continuity after disruptions: An experiment with purchasing professionals

Although emotions can affect the decision-making process of purchasing professionals, limited attention has been dedicated to how they shape the decision to maintain the relationship with suppliers when the latter behave in a socially irresponsible way. Considering this gap, we build on Appraisal Theory to analyze how guilt and trust affect the decision to continue working with a socially irresponsible supplier when a disruption occurs. We conducted a scenario-based experiment with 148 buyers, in which we simulated an extraordinary situation, and then analyzed the data using multiple regression analysis. The results showed that when a supplier is not socially responsible, buyers experience a feeling of guilt and trust them less, which has a negative impact on their decision to continue working with that supplier. The study also found that the effect of the guilt experienced by the purchasing professional is heightened when the purchased item is strategic. This study highlights the importance of paying attention to purchasers' emotional experiences with suppliers' practices during challenging times, as these can shape buyer-supplier relationships in socially responsible supply chains, select sustainable suppliers, and engage in socially responsible purchasing.

A Hybrid Interactive Decision-making Model Based on Multi-objective Optimization: An Application to Sustainable Supplier Selection

Sustainable development is crucial for conserving resources and ensuring smooth supply chain operations. In the context of the complex task of supplier selection, the traditional assumptions of attribute independencies are frequently found to be inadequate. The effective interaction between attributes and their weights plays a crucial role in navigating the decision outcomes. This paper presents a Choquet integral-based hybrid interactive decision-making approach to address the two important issues regarding the weights and interaction of criteria. To achieve this aim, first a hybrid weight determination method is proposed, combining the merits of multi-objective optimization and clustering techniques. To comprehensively assess the interactions among attributes, a non-additive measure determination method is introduced, leveraging concepts such as standard deviation and correlation. This approach effectively captures the interdependencies among attributes, leading to a more accurate decision-making process. Then, the Choquet integral incorporates a logarithmic function, which serves to enhance the modeling of uncertainty and effectively address the complexities present in intricate decision-making situations. Furthermore, a comprehensive interactive MCDM model is constructed, serving as a framework for supplier selection. Finally, experimental and sensitivity analysis demonstrate the effectiveness and stability of the proposed approach.

Sustainable Supplier Selection Using Fuzzy AHP (AHP-F) and Fuzzy ARAS (ARAS-F) Techniques for Fertilizer Supply in the Agricultural Supply Chain

Implementing the right strategies in the agricultural supply chain in the supply of seeds, pesticides, fertilizer, energy, fuel and agricultural mechanization tools and equipment has a great role in increasing agricultural productivity. The main purpose of the study is to rank and evaluate alternatives in choosing a sustainable fertilizer supplier in the agricultural supply chain by using AHP-F and ARAS-F techniques. In an environment of uncertainty and complex supply chain structure, multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods are widely used to solve supplier selection problems. In this study, the importance levels and weights of the criteria in the selection of sustainable fertilizer suppliers were measured by the AHP-F method. The criteria that are important for fertilizer supplier selection were evaluated by taking expert opinions, the uncertain and uncertain opinions of the decision makers were modeled with the AHP-F approach and the weights of the criteria were determined. Among the criteria, resource consumption (FSC05) has the highest weight. Then, alternative rankings were obtained with the ARAS-F method. Fertilizer supplier alternatives in the agricultural supply chain were ranked with the ARAS-F method, using the criterion weights found with AHP-F. In the ranking of alternatives, alternative fertilizer supplier FS03 ranked first with the highest value. This study provides a resource for businesses and other stakeholders to make decisions regarding sustainable fertilizer supplier selection.

Modeling consistency and consensus in social network group decision making: The role of limited dual tolerance and compromise behaviors

In interactive social network group decision making (SNGDM), decision-makers frequently consider both their own preferences and the preferences of trusted members when adjusting preferences. This dual consideration results in the formation of limited dual tolerance and compromise behaviors, as reflected in the cost and willingness of decision-makers to adjust their preferences. This paper investigates the role of limited dual tolerance and compromise behaviors in the consistency and consensus management in SNGDM with additive preference relations. First, this paper introduces the concepts of limited dual tolerance and compromise behaviors. Then, this paper presents an optimization-based model, tailored to manage consistency and consensus in the interactive SNGDM. This model takes into account the two behaviors mentioned, with the goal of assisting decision-makers in adjusting their preferences to achieve consistency and consensus while minimizing associated costs. Given that limited dual compromise behavior may impede decision-makers from achieving consistency and consensus, this paper designs a model to help decision-makers adjust their dual compromise values. Further, this paper develops an interactive consistency and consensus management process with limited dual tolerance and compromise behaviors. Finally, an illustrative example involving sustainable supplier selection is applied, along with the simulation analysis and a discussion, to validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.

SUSTAINABLE SUPPLIER SELECTION IN INDIRECT PROCUREMENT: BEST PRACTICES AND CASE STUDIES IN ENGINEERING

This systematic review examines sustainable supplier selection in indirect procurement within the engineering sector, focusing on best practices, criteria, and impacts on organizational performance. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the review synthesizes findings from 35 articles published between 2000 and 2023. Key best practices identified include the integration of sustainability criteria into supplier evaluations, the use of lifecycle assessments (LCAs) to gauge environmental impact, and the implementation of carbon footprint analyses. Additionally, the emphasis on fair labor practices and the requirement for suppliers to obtain certifications like SA8000 enhance social sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The evolution of supplier selection criteria to encompass environmental, social, and economic factors reflects a more holistic approach, addressing complex sustainability challenges and driving long-term value and resilience in supply chains. The review also highlights the positive impacts of sustainable procurement practices, such as cost savings, risk mitigation, enhanced brand reputation, and improved operational efficiency. These findings underscore the strategic importance of sustainable procurement in achieving organizational sustainability goals and fostering sustainable development in the engineering sector.

OPTIMIZING HVAC EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY: A REVIEW OF MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS

This systematic review examines sustainable supplier selection in indirect procurement within the engineering sector, focusing on best practices, criteria, and impacts on organizational performance. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the review synthesizes findings from 35 articles published between 2000 and 2023. Key best practices identified include the integration of sustainability criteria into supplier evaluations, the use of lifecycle assessments (LCAs) to gauge environmental impact, and the implementation of carbon footprint analyses. Additionally, the emphasis on fair labor practices and the requirement for suppliers to obtain certifications like SA8000 enhance social sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). The evolution of supplier selection criteria to encompass environmental, social, and economic factors reflects a more holistic approach, addressing complex sustainability challenges and driving long-term value and resilience in supply chains. The review also highlights the positive impacts of sustainable procurement practices, such as cost savings, risk mitigation, enhanced brand reputation, and improved operational efficiency. These findings underscore the strategic importance of sustainable procurement in achieving organizational sustainability goals and fostering sustainable development in the engineering sector.

Group decision making model for selection of performance indicators for sustainable supplier evaluation in agro-food supply chain

Sustainable food production is of vital importance to ensure food security, enhanced stability, environmental protection, and economic development for any developing nation. In an Agro- Food Supply Chain (AFSC), joint efforts of all supply chain actors inclined towards sustainability can contribute significantly towards sustainable production. Suppliers, who are intermediaries between Food Processing Firm (FPF) and sub-suppliers or farmers, must follow the FPF's sustainability practices at their own level, and they must monitor the enactment of these activities at their sub-supplier level. In this regard, the study focuses on developing a group consensus mathematical model to derive a broader set of performance indicators to evaluate a supplier's competency in maintaining, monitoring, and tracing sustainable performance in his sub-supplier network. A two-phased group consensus model is presented; it selects performance indicators using the Delphi method and it utilizes a feedback mechanism rooted in Group Analytical Hierarchy Process. This system is based on an iterative algorithm to generate weights that all decision makers accept. The proposed model is illustrated with an analysis of an Indian flour milling company. Kendall's concordance coefficient is employed to understand the degree of agreement among decision makers before and after the application of the proposed model. Increase in its value post-application validates the efficacy of the model. This approach for performance indicator selection for sustainable supplier evaluation research is unique in the field of AFSC. Results of the study indicate that the top ranking indicator is ‘Food Safety’ followed by ‘Payment to Sub-suppliers’. Key policy implications are drawn from the result findings which can be further integrated to support sustainable growth and development of suppliers and sub-suppliers in any AFSC.

The influence of negotiation approaches on supplier relationship management in Zimbabwe’s fast-food industry

Abstract Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) has become a cornerstone of business success since the transformation of the procurement function to supply chain management. Extant literature has documented various predictors of vibrant supplier relationships. However, missing in the extant literature is the potential of negotiation approaches to cultivation of healthy supplier relationships. This study therefore sought to determine the influence of negotiation approaches on SRM. A sample of 150 dyadic transactions in the fast-food restaurant industry was surveyed. The broad dichotomous categorisation of negotiation methods into distributive and integrative approaches was used. SRM was operationalised using dimensions such as commitment, trust, communication, adaptation, and satisfaction. After conducting a Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) the results revealed that the distributive strategy was weakly linked to supplier relationship, while a strong supplier relationship was observed in the use of integrative negotiation strategy. It was therefore recommended that procurement practitioners must employ integrative negotiation strategies and tactics in order to create sustainable supplier relationship management.

The predicting role of sustainable supplier selection on lead-time performance in public procurement: relational capability as a moderator

PurposeWith increasing concerns regarding the performance of public procurement, especially concerning timely delivery, this study aims to investigate the predictive role of sustainable supplier selection (SSS) in enhancing lead-time performance in public procurement, while also examining the moderating effect of relational capability.Design/methodology/approachThe study collected primary data from 179 accredited public organizations in Tanzania through structured questionnaires and used partial least squares structural equation modeling for data analysis.FindingsThe results reveal that SSS and relational capability influence lead-time performance in public procurement. Regarding the moderating effect of relational capability, the study establishes that relational capability strengthens the influence of SSS on lead-time performance. Therefore, based on the collected data from surveyed public organizations, relational capability positively moderates the relationship between SSS and lead-time performance in public procurement.Social implicationsThe study offer valuable implications for public procurement practitioners, academics and other stakeholders. Public organizations should consider contemplate integrating sustainability aspects into supplier selection processes. Furthermore, the study contributes to advancing efforts toward achieving sustainable development goals (i.e. SDG12) within Tanzania, particularly by advocating for sustainable public procurement practices aligned with national policies and priorities.Originality/valueThis study not only enhances the understanding of public procurement performance by investigating lead-time improvement, incorporating considerations of SSS and relational capability, but it also offers empirical evidence of the moderating role of relational capability within the unexplored Tanzanian context.

A generalized interval-valued p,q Rung orthopair fuzzy Maclaurin symmetric mean and modified regret theory based sustainable supplier selection method

A novel interval valued p,q Rung orthopair fuzzy (IVPQ-ROF) multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) method for sustainable supplier selection (SSS) is proposed in this paper. This study mainly contains two research points: (1) tackling the interrelation between attributes; and (2) describing the psychological state and risk attitude of decision makers (DMs). For the first research point, we introduce the Archimedean operation rules for interval valued p,q Rung orthopair fuzzy sets (IVPQ-ROFSs), then the generalized interval valued p, q Rung orthopair fuzzy Maclaurin symmetric mean (GIVPQ-ROFMSM) operator and the generalized interval valued p, q Rung orthopair fuzzy weighted Maclaurin symmetric mean (GIVPQ-ROFWMSM) operator are defined to reflect the correlation between attributes. For the second research point, we introduce the positive ideal degree (PID) and negative ideal degree (NID) based on projection of IVPQ-ROFSs, and modified regret theory. Both of them consider the best alternative and worst alternative, so as to reflect the psychological state and risk attitude of DMs. Finally, a SSS problem is presented to manifest the effectiveness of the designed method. We also provide sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis to further demonstrate the rationality and validity of the proposed method.

A decision support system for sustainable supplier selection problem: Evidence from a radiator manufacturing industry

Supplier selection is the basis of a successful supply chain. It is also a key factor in improving the competitiveness of an organization. Being a complex process, the supplier selection plays an important role in upgrading the supply chain. The purpose of this research is to present an integrated approach based on fuzzy best-worst method (BWM) and failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) for sustainable supplier selection considering seasonal quantity discounts and supplier risk for a radiator manufacturing company. Therefore, as the aim implies, this study addresses how organizations develop a sustainable supplier selection framework by integrating linear programming and decision-making in presence of seasonal discounts. To this end, fuzzy BWM and FMEA were employed to calculate weighting factors for different selection criteria and evaluate the supplier risk, respectively. Then, suppliers were ranked using the so-called technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Finally, the discount type was examined by the LP-metric method. Results of the fuzzy BWM showed that the customer satisfaction was the criterion of highest priority, followed by long-term relationship, and then pollution control, among the total of 13 criteria considered in this work. Outputs of the TOPSIS referred to the supplier 3 as the top-ranked supplier, followed by supplier 6 and then supplier 1.

A cutting-edge data envelopment analysis model for measuring sustainable supplier performance like never before

One of the challenges for suppliers is to increase their market share due to the limited target market. In other words, in the supply chain, the demand for suppliers' products is limited. Therefore, suppliers produce a determined share of the required amount by producers. However, when it comes to the share in the amount of output among suppliers, the output of suppliers in this indicator is interdependent. In the classical data envelopment analysis (DEA) models, there are no models that assess the suppliers according to the dependence of at least one output on each other. In this paper, a model is presented that can assess sustainable suppliers in the presence of interdependent output among suppliers by using DEA models and their extension. It can also determine the total benchmarks of decision making units (DMUs) in such a way that satisfies the interdependent output constraint. In other words, benchmarks are not determined independently. Ultimately, an approach is presented to determine efficient projections for inefficient DMUs by considering the concept of interdependent output. To represent the applicability of our proposed model, a dataset for two consecutive years including 32 sustainable suppliers with consideration of interdependent output has been implemented using the model presented in this paper. The resulting sustainability has been compared with a classical model.

Research on Sustainable Supplier Evaluation Index System in Architectural Design Industry

Sustainable development has been popularized and emphasized in many industries. Great attention has been paid to the sustainability performance of the whole supply chain, with evaluating suppliers’ sustainability being particularly critical. However, research on sustainable development in the consulting service industry remains to be discovered, and few academic studies have analyzed the supplier selection indices derived from this industry. This paper conducted a case study in a design institute using the Delphi method to investigate the concept and characteristics of sustainable suppliers. Keywords derived from surveys and literature were collected, sorted, and established into a comprehensive hierarchy index system for sustainability evaluation. Finally, based on the improved failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the failure risk of the indices was analyzed with weighted risk factors to obtain the high-risk key evaluation indices, which provided a simplified scheme for enterprises to streamline the evaluation process on sustainable suppliers. The results show the reliability of the improved FMEA model by differentiating the risk value and ranking. Suggestions for sustainable improvement are provided.

A Literature Survey on Application of MCDM Mathematical Optimization Models for the Sustainable Supplier Selection in Manufacturing Industries

Organizations need to entertain and motivate their ability on sustainable supply chain activities based on environment protection regulation activities. GSCM needs multi-dimensional techniques and methods. Thus multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques adopted for performance assessment of suppliers in Green supply chain management (GSCM). Supplier selection is important and it is one of the important operational function for the development of GSCM. In order to select the most suitable suppliers, many economic and environmental criteria must be taken account in the decision process. Green supplier choice is a very hard work that needs to consider sustainable factors incorporated into the traditional supplier selection. This paper aims to survey the existing different MCDM approaches which are applied in GSCM for supplier selection and evaluation and identify most significant and effective MCDM approach in comparison with some other MCDM approaches.

A decision-making framework for automating distribution centers in the Retail supply

Warehouse/distribution center (DC) automation technology for the retail industry promises to reduce operational costs, improve flexibility and response time for customers, and help improve network productivity, thus making it very relevant for omni/multichannel (OC/MC) settings. However, the investment required to acquire the DC automation technology is high, and hence, the investment decision must be operationally and financially comprehensive. In fact, an automated DC has a network-wide impact: it can benefit players in the network, but in turn is exposed to network risks and the investment must be safeguarded. While the need for a comprehensive decision-making framework and safeguarding strategy is stressed by scholars, such a framework is lacking. Further, corresponding integrated sub-frameworks for key elements in the OC/MC value chain are also missing. In this paper, we address these gaps and contribute by providing a) generalized and integrated three-part framework, b) corresponding sub-frameworks, c) discrete event, economic, and math programming models, d) rapid-sizing/analysis tools based on: i) analysis at the DC-level, ii) network level, iii) economic/business level, and iv) contract level (sustainable supplier/distribution relationship). In this reference, we investigate a new generation ‘full-case’ technology that has been recognized as a key to warehouse automation. The insights from our research inform several strategic tradeoffs (extent of automation, investment in labor vs. capital, response vs. efficiency, and sustainable supplier management) relevant for decision-making and safeguarding an expensive asset such as an automated DC. Our analysis is based on interviews (retailers, automated and conventional DCs, and DC equipment suppliers), on-site observations, secondary data, and learning from analytical models. We also present an illustrative real-life application/case study of the framework and the modeling details in the E-component.