Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The retail industry plays a significant role in the global economy, and as such, the implementation of sustainable supply chain practices within this sector is crucial for environmental preservation and long-term business success. This thesis investigates the adoption and impact of sustainable supply chain practices in the retail industry through a detailed case study analysis. The research focuses on understanding the challenges, opportunities, and outcomes associated with integrating sustainability into supply chain operations within retail organizations. The study begins with an exploration of the background of sustainable supply chain practices in the retail industry, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in business operations. The problem statement identifies the gaps and shortcomings in current supply chain practices and emphasizes the need for a more sustainable approach. The objectives of the study are outlined to investigate the drivers, barriers, and benefits of implementing sustainable supply chain practices in retail organizations. The limitations and scope of the study are also discussed, providing clarity on the boundaries and constraints of the research. A comprehensive review of the literature on sustainable supply chain management in the retail industry is conducted in Chapter Two. This chapter examines existing theories, frameworks, and empirical studies related to sustainability practices in supply chain management, providing a theoretical foundation for the research. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations in the research process, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. In Chapter Four, the findings of the case study analysis are presented and discussed in detail. The results of the study shed light on the current state of sustainable supply chain practices in the retail industry, highlighting best practices, challenges faced, and lessons learned from the case study organization. The thesis concludes with Chapter Five, summarizing the key findings, implications, and contributions of the research. Recommendations for retail organizations seeking to enhance their sustainable supply chain practices are provided, along with suggestions for future research in this area. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable supply chain practices in the retail industry, offering valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and academics interested in advancing sustainability within supply chain management.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Implementation of Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in the Retail Industry: A Case Study Analysis" aims to investigate and analyze the adoption and implementation of sustainable supply chain practices within the retail sector. Sustainable supply chain practices have gained significant importance in recent years due to increasing awareness of environmental issues, social responsibility, and economic sustainability. The retail industry, being a key player in the global economy, has a crucial role to play in promoting sustainability throughout its supply chain. This research will delve into the various sustainable supply chain practices that can be implemented in the retail industry, such as ethical sourcing, green procurement, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and transportation optimization. By conducting a comprehensive case study analysis, this project seeks to identify the challenges, opportunities, and best practices associated with the implementation of sustainable supply chain practices in retail companies. The study will focus on a select number of retail companies known for their commitment to sustainability and analyze their supply chain strategies in detail. By examining real-world case studies, the research aims to provide valuable insights into the successful implementation of sustainable supply chain practices and the impact of such initiatives on business performance, customer perception, and overall sustainability goals. Through a combination of literature review, data analysis, and qualitative research methods, this project will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on sustainable supply chain management in the retail industry. The findings of this research are expected to offer practical recommendations for retail companies looking to enhance their sustainability efforts and create a more environmentally and socially responsible supply chain. Overall, this research overview highlights the significance of investigating sustainable supply chain practices in the retail industry and underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach to sustainability that considers environmental, social, and economic factors. The project aspires to provide actionable insights that can help retail companies navigate the complexities of sustainable supply chain management and drive positive change within the industry.