PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore how supplier digital absorptive capacity can be assessed as a component of a supplier evaluation system and to identify the accompanying supplier development (SD) mechanisms that support suppliers in learning and adopting this important capability.Design/methodology/approachThe authors used engaged scholarship methods to observe and measure change as Rolls-Royce deployed Model-Based Definition/Enterprise (MBD/E) digital technology across its global supply chain. Data was collected from two tiers of the supply chain through interviews, workshops and documentation.FindingsThis analysis supports the relationship between SD activities as a means for improving the transfer of digital knowledge between buyers and suppliers. An important insight from our research is that suppliers' ability to absorb digital knowledge from buyers relies on measures of digital progress and regular reviews. These activities are underpinned by establishing a digital minimum standard for assessing the rate of supplier improvement.Research limitations/implicationsThis longitudinal study took place over three years of on-site observations of SD activities. Because the analysis was context specific, the findings of this study may not apply to all organisations undergoing digital transformation. However, the AC framework provides a foundation for future research in different industries, which may enhance its generalisability.Originality/valueThis novel study provides an assessment of how supplier digital absorptive capacity can be empirically captured as a component of a supplier evaluation system. The findings contribute to broader theories on absorptive capacity (AC) and provide practical implications for supplier managers adopting new digital technologies.

This paper aims to find how digitalization supports inter-organizational purchasing/order fulfillment processes and the required agility to respond to supply/demand uncertainties. The research method includes multiple case studies. Qualitative data are collected via interviews and documentation review. Within-case and cross-case analyses of the research lead to 14 propositions and a novel framework, which formalize and link agility and digitalization at different levels. The research findings point out the agility in micro and macro types for the demand and supply sides of the business, responding to different levels of uncertainties. The findings categorize the relevant applications of digitalization at three levels: data interchange, data integration, and predictive data analytics. Moreover, the agility-digitalization relationships are defined for different levels of customization, represented by customer order decoupling points. This paper contributes to the literature by offering an in-depth and explicit understanding of the impacts of digitalization on different types of agility for different levels of customization.

Co-opetition is gaining increasing attention as a potentially useful form of inter-organisational collaboration model to improve firms’ sustainable performance. However, limited previous studies have provided a clear substantive theory or offered empirical evidence for the process of sustainability-driven co-opetition. This paper explores how competing companies can collaborate in their supply chains (SCs) to achieve a higher level of sustainability performance by identifying drivers, facilitators and barriers of co-opetition. Based on two explorative case studies of co-opetition in the UK, the findings of this paper lead to a number of propositions and a theoretical framework for sustainability-driven co-opetition in SCs. This study contributes to the literature by providing a more in-depth understanding of co-opetition as a strategic capability for firms. This paper also proves the feasibility of a combined use of Resource-Based View and Network Theory perspectives in explaining a paradoxical inter-organisational relationship like co-opetition. A road map for sustainability-driven co-opetition in SCs is also provided as a heuristic decision model for practitioners.

PurposeThis paper aims to explain the role of supply chain capital (SCC) in developing transformative supply chain resilience (SCRes) to cope with environmental dynamism. Through a panarchy theory lens, this paper holistically examines how supply chains and their resilience are impacted by the multilevel structure in which they are embedded.Design/methodology/approachContextualised explanation-building case studies are used to examine the transformative SCRes of 10 companies. Data were collected via interviews, documents, archival records and observations.FindingsStudying transformative SCRes leads to generating insights into the application of SCC for managing environmental dynamisms at the organisational and supply chain levels. Furthermore, the linkages between different levels of the panarchy and their impact on the change in SCC to cope with the dynamisms are identified and explained.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper contributes to the new and timely paradigm of transformative SCRes by studying this phenomenon in a holistic manner (rather than a traditional reductionistic view). Through a panarchy lens, the need to examine and analyse different hierarchy levels simultaneously to interpret SCRes responses to environmental dynamism is highlighted.Practical implicationsValuable insights are provided to practitioners in developing an understanding of structural and relational SCC and their management in the development of transformative SCRes.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the first empirical studies using a multilevel social-ecological-based panarchy framework in the supply chain management context. Applying this novel approach is highly relevant and reveals several new research opportunities.

PurposeThis paper aims to explore how omni-channel data flows should be integrated by specifying what data, omni-channel agents and information and digital technologies (IDTs) should be considered and connected.Design/methodology/approachA multiple case study method is used with 17 British companies. The studies are supported by 68 interviews with the case companies and their consumers, 5 site visits, 4 focus group meetings and the companies’ archival data and documentations.FindingsThis paper provides novel frameworks for omni-channel data flow integration from consumer and business perspectives. The frameworks consist of omni-channel agents, their data transactions and their supporting IDTs. Relatedly, this paper formalizes the omni-channel data flow integration in the forms of horizontal, vertical and total integrations and explores their contributions to the adaptability of omni-channel, as a complex adaptive system (CAS). It also discusses that how inter-organizational governance mechanisms can support data flow integration and their relevant IDT implementations.Research limitations/implicationsThe breadth and depth of the required IDTs for omni-channel integration prove the necessity for omni-channel systems to move toward total integration. Therefore, supported by CAS and inter-organizational governance theories, this research indicates how data flow integration and IDT can transform the omni-channel through self-organization and autonomy capability enhancement.Originality/valueThis research’s recommended frameworks provide a robust platform to formalize data flow integration as the omni-channel's core driver. Accordingly, it moves the literature from a basic description of “what omni-channel is” and provides a novel and significant debate on what specific data should be shared at what levels between which agents of the omni-channel, and with what type of relationship governance mechanism, to assure omni-channel horizontal, vertical and total integrations.

The paper aims to identify how companies can enhance their omni-channel activities through improved data management and integration. Multiple case studies of ten leading UK companies are conducted by using multiple sources of data, including interviews, archival documents and expert focus groups. The case companies are manufacturers and retailers in the clothing, food, and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors. A thorough list of challenges in the implementation of omni-channel systems is generated and a number of propositions on enablers and barriers to omni-channel data integration are recommended. Our findings emphasise the importance of automating and standardising data capturing and sharing methods, and centralising data storage among companies and channels, which lead to improved efficiencies. They also indicate that omni-channel systems should be responsive to the choices of customers, and integration of the information systems of logistics service providers and their buyers is crucial in making omni-channels more efficient and consumer-responsive.

The importance of supplier development programs to enhance supply chain environmental capabilities has often been posited. However, the literature is limited in identifying and explaining the factors that may influence or mediate the effectiveness of such programs. This paper examines the role of environmental supplier development programs led by the buying organization on supplier environmental practices, while testing the mediating effects of the supplier in the forms of resource allocation and collaboration with the buyer. The relationships are tested based on survey data from 267 supplier organizations in the UK using Partial Least Squares (PLS). The results indicate that supplier development in the form of setting requirements and audits has a wide, positive impact on all supplier environmental activities, while environmental supplier development in the form of direct projects only affects supplier environmental activities in logistics and transport. The results for the mediation effects tested are varied: while supplier collaboration is important to enhance the supplier logistics and transport activities, supplier resource allocation proves to be mediating the impact of environmental supplier development on the supplier energy efficiency and logistics and transport activities. The research sheds new light on the effectiveness of supplier development and environmental programs. The findings indicate that buying organizations should make explicit reference to the way they define supplier collaboration and resource allocation for their environmental plans and environmental supplier development programs to be effective.

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the benefits of the application of a radio frequency identification (RFID)-based collaborative tracking and tracing (CTT) system on a logistics setting in which freight is transported by rail between a seaport and a dry port. The case study research method was used for this study and the empirical data were gathered through a research project, which was carried out in Sweden. The results indicate that opportunities for improving the speed of operations, resource utilisation, timeliness of operations, safety of operations, and finally, improving the quality of data are created for multiple actors within the studied logistical setting after application of the CTT system.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study the potential for improving sustainability performance in food supply networks by implementing collaborative distribution. Food supply chains generate a significant portion of CO2 emissions, because of the large volume of food transportation and the large number and frequency of trips made to deliver food products to retail stores, making it available to the customers. Collaboration of partners in food supply chains will lead to reducing CO2 emissions. Design/methodology/approach – Such collaboration could be in the form of sharing trucks by retailers, to increase the fill rate of the vehicles and to reduce their empty running. A case study of the logistics network of a British company, distributing fruits and vegetables, is carried out. The company sends the products from a distribution centre to 27 retailers’ warehouses of 3 different companies in the UK. A simulation study is carried out to measure the reduced traveled distance for delivery of the products and the reduced amount of CO2 emissions across two different scenarios, as a result of implementing collaborative distribution. Findings – With this approach, the total CO2 emissions are able to be reduced by at least 26 per cent. Originality/value – The theoretical contribution of the paper is important both for showing the role of simulation and collaborative distribution for developing the green supply chain solutions management and their indicating to the applications to logistics and product delivery.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a collaborative tracking and tracing (T&T) system that enables supply chain actors to join and leave the system in run-time without disrupting the function of the system. Design/methodology/approach – A collaborative T&T system is introduced using a conceptual approach. Supporting empirical data are collected through a deductive case study of a Swedish automotive supply chain. Findings – A collaborative T&T system based on composite and observer design patterns is an appropriate solution for inter-organizational T&T. Research limitations/implications – This research contributes to the body of knowledge in the field of logistics T&T. The conceptually developed collaborative T&T system needs to be validated empirically. Practical implications – The collaborative T&T system developed conceptually here could be used as a model for the practical development of inter-organizational T&T systems. Originality/value – The introduction of a collaborative T&T system, adopting the theories of software engineering and product data management, represents an original contribution to the field of T&T in logistics and transportation.

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of how the intelligent transportation system (ITS) supports freight transportation operations. A study of the literature on transportation information and communication technology (ICT) and intelligent (or smart) transportation systems has been conducted. Documents of more than 60 companies producing or using intelligent transportation technologies and systems have been reviewed to provide empirical data regarding freight ITSs. Furthermore, direct observations of some of the systems as well as semi-structured and non-structured interviews with managers of some of the companies have been conducted as secondary sources of empirical data. As a result of studying the companies, a list of nine freight ITSs is generated; it represents the main freight ITSs. Also, different transportation information types that freight ITS work based on their availability are recognised. The results show that vehicle location systems and condition monitoring systems support and use more transportation information types compared to the other freight ITSs.

Purpose – The paper aims to explore the potential effects on logistic operations of implementing the Electronic Product Code Information Service (EPCIS) standard and radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to enable food traceability. A conceptual model for analysing supply chains according to EPCIS standard is also presented. Design/methodology/approach – A literature review was conducted to establish a theoretical framework. A case study of a Swedish fresh fish supply chain was then carried out. Findings – Implementation of the EPCIS standard and RFID technology to enable food traceability potentially affects the following logistic operations activities: identification, monitoring, labelling, goods handling, reporting of production, identification costs and revenue changes due to sales of goods. The conceptual model was used to analyse the effects. Research limitations/implications – The paper contributes to logistic research by studying the implementation of RFID technology and information standards to comply with food traceability requirements. The research is limited to fish supply chains; other sectors and supply chains need to be investigated for further generalisation of the results. Practical implications – Regulatory requirements on food traceability stipulate the implementation of food traceability systems, placing the responsibility on companies by authorities. The research presented can support managers in understanding the potential effects of implementing such systems. Originality/value – The discussion about logistics and food traceability has in part revolved around implementation of RFID technology and standardised approaches for handling information to preserve food quality and safety. This paper presents potential effects on logistic operations when implementing the EPCIS standard and RFID technology as a way of enabling traceability throughout food supply chains.

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyse, by means of in-depth case study, opportunities offered by sharing rail-wagon tracking and tracing data for operations of actors of an automotive Supply Chain (SC). The study shows that sharing data via a wagon tracking and tracing system provides opportunities for traffic authorities to better monitor infrastructure usage. This will lead to improved maintenance procedures by transport operators and, further, will enable the tracking and tracing of containers and pallets demanded by transport customers.

The paper investigates the design and implementation of rail-wagon tracking to align the interests of rail-track owners, rail operators and third-party logistics service providers. The investigation identifies design actions to enable beneficial uses for the different rail-wagon tracking participants in a railway logistics system. Design science is used as the overall research approach. The findings are derived in the context of three organisations involved in an automotive railway logistics system. Data on the perceptions and interests of the parties is collected using the case-study methodology. Our findings indicate how rail-wagon tracking can be used to improve the efficiency of rail transport operators’ maintenance operations and potentially decrease wear and tear on rail tracks owned by the government authority. These anticipated benefits have motivated the transport authority in the case setting to make investments in more intelligent infrastructure, providing a platform for future material-flow tracking by logistics companies.