A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Management, School of Management

Thesis (Ph.D.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2016

This research examines how sustainability can be applied to managing a retail supply chain. Using Tesco Lotus, leading modem trade retailer in Thailand, as a case study, I identify the drivers of sustainable supply chain management initiatives and examine how their successful implementation can help improve sustainability performance in retail supply chains in emerging markets. This research uses the case study method to demonstrate the implementation of retail sustainable supply chain management, the focus being on a leading modem trade retailer in Thailand, Tesco Lotus. The elements of the case study included data collection, in-depth interviews with personnel in key management functions, direct observations of participants, and a documentation review. The empirical findings show that in order for the company to achieve the best possible results, all employees must share common sustainability values and goals and be aware of sustainability performance indicators applicable to them. The leadership or top management must communicate the sustainability objectives of the company and ensure that everyone (including its employees and other members of the supply chain) understands them. Employee engagement is considered to be one of the most important drivers for ensuring the success of sustainable supply chain management initiatives. Direct (local) sourcing is another important sustainability initiative practiced by Tesco Lotus, which helps it meet its planned sustainability targets. This research will help retailers operating in emerging markets to develop and implement their own sustainable retail supply chains. Although there has been considerable research on sustainable supply chain management in the past few years, to date, research on sustainable retail supply chain management among modem trade retailers in emerging markets has been scanty. This study is one of the few to explore the successes and drivers of sustainability management in the context of a retail supply chain in Thailand. In doing so, it does not only fill a necessary gap but also serves as a guideline for retailers in the same business in emerging markets, who may wish to transform their traditional supply chains into sustainable supply chains.