Developing an indicator framework for measuring sustainable logistics innovation in retail

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop an indicator framework for measuring sustainable logistics innovation (SLI) in retail. Design/methodology/approach A literature review in different theory areas was conducted to generate a literature-based SLI indictor framework. The literature-based framework was then compared to five-year sustainability reports of three Swedish retailers to identify SLI indicators and how to measure them. This comparison led to a developed framework. Findings The developed framework combines sustainability dimensions with logistics activities. It identifies SLI indicators and how to measure them. Significant gaps between the framework and sustainability reports prompted the creation of an agenda for future research. Items that further research should consider include broadening or deepening the framework, developing specifically social SLI indicators for all logistics activities and developing measurement scales for the SLI indicators. Research limitations/implications The study presents an SLI indicator framework as an initial contribution towards knowledge creation, and following the agenda for further research could generate even more implications for research. Practical implications Managers need inspiration concerning which indicators to use to measure SLI and how. Social implications The study addresses both environmental and social sustainability, as well as suggests SLI indicators. Originality/value No identified study has merged sustainable logistics innovation and performance measurement in retail