An analysis of drivers affecting the implementation of green supply chain practices in German manufacturing companies

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate whether and how driver for green supply chain management (GSCM) forward green supply chain practices in German manufacturing companies. Methodology / Approach: The research is based on a mono method multiple case study which follows a deductive to inductive approach. Qualitative data is collected to process theories which are derived deductively from the literature study. By means of semi-structured with experts from four German manufacturing companies, which operate in diverse industries, the research topic is investigated according to the interpretivist research philosophy. Findings: The present research leads to the conclusion that the determined factors internal management, supplier management, customer management, regulatory, social and competitiveness generally forward green supply chain practices in German manufacturing companies. Nevertheless, it can be stated that internal management as well as regulations have a comparatively strong positive affect on green supply chain practices, whereas the influence of customer management is comparatively low. Furthermore, there are differences between different industrial sectors of manufacturing companies. It can be stated that industrial sectors like medicine and chemical, which deal with hazardous, toxic or not intended for the public substances, record stronger impacts of drivers for GSCM than other industries. Practical implications: The evidence from this study indicates the importance of drivers of GSCM with regard to green supply chain practices. The findings, gathered by the interviews, provide new insights in possible approaches for making supply chain practices more environmentally friendly. Originality / Value: Previous studies already focussed on driving factors that forward green supply chain practices. However, these studies are limited to developing or emerging countries. Therefore, researches in this area are quite rare for highly-developed countries like Germany. Furthermore, most of studies regarding driving factors for green supply chain practices follow a quantitative data approach based on a large sample size, whereas the present study follows a qualitative approach based on interviews. Although, quantitative results enable a better generalization of results, the respondents have no opportunity to present new insights. Further research: Further research might explore the given research question in another country or industrial sector. Furthermore, to receive less detailed but thus, more generalizable findings from a larger data sources, further research can be based on a quantitative data approach. Last but not least, further researches can consider an increased number of driving factors