The supply chain integration and supply chain sustainability relationship: A qualitative analysis of the UK and Ghana pharmaceutical industry

Abstract

This study identifies and proposes a framework that provides insights into supply chain integration (SCI) and supply chain sustainability (SCS) relationship. Drawing on dynamic capability theory, stakeholder theory, and contingency theory, it analyses primary qualitative data obtained by interviewing managers and executives and conducting observations, as well as secondary data within leading pharmaceutical companies, national pharmaceutical institutions, and regulators in the UK and Ghana. The study illustrates how and why (i) SCS can be achieved through SCI, and (ii) identifies the internal and external contextual factors (IECFs) that influence the relationship between SCI and SCS, that is, ‘external uncertainty (EU)’, ‘patient satisfaction’, and ‘leadership style’. The contribution of the paper lies in (i) providing an in-depth understanding of the IECFs affecting supply chains’ sustainability performance, and (ii) proposing a framework that extrapolates the IECFs influencing the relationship between SCI and SCS for both developed and developing country contexts. Practitioners are provided with guidance on how to effectively and efficiently operationalise SCI to achieve SCS whilst managing the effects of the IECFs on supply chain activities.