Impact of greening attitude and buyer power on supplier environmental management strategy

Studies on the appropriate strategies for supplier relationship management vary according to the greening approaches of a firm. The relative power of greening approaches for suppliers remains untapped. This research aims to fill this gap, arguing that firm attitudes toward going green and their dominance in supply chains affect their corresponding environmental management practices. The case study method is utilized. The main objects of study include Taiwanese firms in high-tech industries. Eleven firms were selected for in-depth investigation. Supplier management approaches are investigated from six different perspectives: supplier policy, information sharing/communication, joint action of supplier/buyer, relationship-handling issues, supplier support, and relationship quality. Results show that each case group emphasizes different perspectives. Thus, this study coined four strategies: strategic alliance, arm’s length relationship, partnership, and ongoing relationship.

Keywords
Green supply chain management; Buyer– supplier power; Greening approach; Supplier relationship management; Case study