Examining the effects of stakeholder forces on sustainable practices in the Bangladeshi garment industry

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the current stakeholder forces for sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) in the Bangladeshi garment industry. The focal point is identifying which stakeholder forces could enhance sustainable practices in the factory premises, and whether there are conflicting forces which might obstruct the sustainable practices. A qualitative research design is adopted, drawing on data from 37 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders related to garment manufacturing. Thematic analysis conceptually guides the analytical process. The findings demonstrate the supporting and hindering forces currently influencing the garment industry in Bangladesh. This paper also identifies three conflicting forces relating to economic gain, employee empowerment and global image, where trade-offs towards SSCM implementation exist. This study extends existing research relating to SSCM within the garment industry of Bangladesh, identifying differences between different stakeholder groups and recognising the conflicting forces that exist.

Keywords

• Sustainable supply chain management
• Bangladeshi garment industry
• Stakeholder theory
• Sustainable forces
• Trade-offs