Green agenda and sustainability in follow up and evaluation stage of purchasing of logistics services:perspectives from the British shippers and forwarders

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of the research described in this paper is to investigate the role that green agenda and sustainability plays in follow up and evaluation stage of purchasing of logistics services. There is a significant evidence of a divergence between perspectives between shippers and forwarders when it comes to this area. Research Approach The work presented in this article refines methodology of Lummus et al. (2001) and uses focussed interviews with two groups of supply chain management professionals: shippers (manufacturers and retailers) and forwarders (3PLs). The context of the paper’s empirical work is the UK. Findings and Originality The findings suggest that, while shippers and forwarders recognise a positive link between cost saving and green agenda and sustainability, there is room for improvement in this area, as a focus of discussions between shippers and forwarders during follow up and evaluation stage in purchasing logistics services is predominantly on price and service levels. Research Impact The authors focus on the follow-up and evaluation stage in purchasing of logistics services, which is an under-explored topic in academic literature. Practical Impact A profile of perspectives towards green agenda and sustainability in follow up and evaluation stage of purchasing of logistics services by firms in the UK is presented.