This study aimed to understand how path dependence affects the supply chain (SC) circularity trajectory in a food cooperative SC.

To elaborate on path dependence theory, we conducted a single case study of a cooperative SC using data gathered from four years of sustainability reports and semi-structured interviews with multiple respondents to allow for triangulation.

We found that the cooperative SC circularity trajectory examined was affected by path dependence, including path formation and context. Path formation is based on cooperativism principles (e.g. democratic control), while context is linked to circular actions adopted in this community-based configuration. For instance, the management of packaging and waste disposal are circular actions continuously learnt because of two lock-ins and specific capabilities developed in the food cooperative SC circularity trajectory.

Recognising the event sequencing of circular actions will help managers adopt circular economy (CE) principles and boost their SC circularity trajectories.

Unlike previous research, this study elaborated on path dependence theory to understand the SC circularity trajectory. Such a perspective emphasised limitations in the rationale of linear performance and added new insights into the further introduction of the circular performance journey towards CE transition.

São Paulo School of Business Administration (FGV EAESP)

Researcher: Susana Pereira

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