Journal article

Publication year: 2024

Journal: Business Ethics, the Environment and Responsibility

ISSN: 2694-6416

eISSN: 2694-6424

Open access status: Hybrid

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1111/beer.12697

Publisher: Wiley

Abstract: 
The high complexity of international supply chain (SC) relationships requires mechanisms to build trust among stakeholders. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of developing and maintaining high trust levels in exchange relationships is essential to managing associated SC risks. Third-party certification (TPC) is a widely used, control-based governance mechanism in organic food production that aims to help build trust. Drawing on the concepts of trust and control, this article presents an analytical framework for assessing TPC's effects on trust-control dynamics within food SCs. By using qualitative data on a buyer-supplier relationship between Cuba and Europe, this case illustrates the mutually reinforcing relationship between trust and control. We also demonstrate how trust is built across multiple levels. By considering contextual factors, the case illustrates controls' impact on building institutional trust while also pointing out TPC's limited efficacy in enhancing collaboration in SCs.

Harvard Citation style: Busch, M. and Herzig, C. (2024) Trust and control dynamics in buyer-supplier relationships: The case of organic honey certification in Cuba, Business Ethics, the Environment and Responsibility. https://doi.org/10.1111/beer.12697

APA Citation style: Busch, M., & Herzig, C. (2024). Trust and control dynamics in buyer-supplier relationships: The case of organic honey certification in Cuba. Business Ethics, the Environment and Responsibility. https://doi.org/10.1111/beer.12697