The role of power asymmetries in implementing multi-tier sustainable supply chains initiatives

This work examines multi-tier sustainable supply chain management initiatives in the electronics industry. The work identifies the practices adopted by electronics companies to implement sustainability across their supply chains (SCs) and distinguishes the power levers that influence cascading the sustainability practices in the upstream SC. The multiple case study research shows that requirements and assessment are the most widespread practices along multi-tier SCs, whereas incentives are limited to first-tier suppliers. Collaboration and training display potential but are not yet implemented. Size and purchasing volume remain the most significant sources of power, although suppliers’ substitutability counterbalances the power of large buyers.