Social responsibility and supply chain relationships

Abstract

We use the term purchasing social responsibility (PSR) to describe the involvement of purchasing managers in socially responsible activities. The purpose of the research is to examine the potential impact that PSR might have on supply chain relationships. Our findings suggest that PSR has a direct and positive impact on supplier performance, as well as an indirect, mediated effect through improved trust and cooperation. These findings hold important implications not only for purchasing managers but also logistics managers in the areas of customer service, distribution, and business-to-business marketing.