Evolution of supply chain management: a sustainability focused review

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to review the past and current developments of supply chain management (SCM) to identify key possibilities and future trends. Through literature review and observations pertaining to SCM developments, the paper first reveals some early patterns of SCM in manufacturing and business operations. Then, it discusses the system integration and collaboration mechanisms that make up the dominant SCM foci in current research and applications. Finally, recent technological advances that are likely to impact SCM along with pressures for environmental sustainability are recognised as potential research directions. Contributions to sustainability along the SCM evolution are also noted. The paper is original in that it not only reviews the evolution of SCM but also includes a sustainability focus. The resultant discussion is likely to benefit SCM theorists and practitioners to meet future challenges.