Investigating the Role of Smart and Resilient Supplier Management Practices in Circular Economy: A Supply Chain Practice View Perspective

This study aims to understand how industrial firms manage smart and resilient supplier management practices within a circular economy context to enhance smart and resilient circular supply chain performance. We employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design. Using the supply chain practice view, the study develops five research hypotheses. Primary data were collected through surveys, and structural equation modeling was used to test the model in study one. In study two, a qualitative study using semistructured interviews was performed. Our study shows that smart and resilient supplier management practices affect circular supply chain performance, making it a unique and significant contribution. This influence is due to two critical intermediate outcomes: (a) friction reduction and (b) the development of smart and resilient circular supply chain innovations. These intermediate outcomes contribute to enhanced smart and resilient circular supply chain performance. Our study provides a perspective by addressing the “how” of the impact. The study demonstrates how firms can leverage smart and resilient supplier management practices to improve circular supply chain performance. This comprehensive approach enriches the understanding of smart and resilient supplier management practices, emphasizing their strategic importance in achieving superior circular supply chain outcomes.