Regenerative supply chain orientation and coopetition in supply chain networks for ESG initiatives: A parallel mediation study

The regenerative supply chain is an emerging research frontier in the supply chain domain. Regeneration aims to heal, restore, and enhance socio-ecological systems where supply chains operate. However, ESG initiatives within regenerative supply chains remain an under-researched area. Additionally, how regenerative supply chain orientation translates into coopetition in supply networks for ESG initiatives is mainly unexplored. Hence, our study aims to develop and test a theoretical framework considering regenerative supply chain orientation and coopetition in supply chain networks for ESG initiatives. This study employs an empirical design to develop a theoretical model based on the Resource-Based View. Further, it utilizes a process-oriented approach to analyze a parallel mediation model. We conducted robustness tests to ensure methodological rigor. The parallel mediation effect of the firm’s three digitalization capabilities confirmed the role of each mediator in the relationship between regenerative supply chain orientation and coopetition in supply chain networks for ESG initiatives in the digital era. Thus, the analysis reveals that the capability for digital transformation in supply chain functions, resource complementarity, and an innovation culture facilitate the translation of regenerative supply chain orientation into successful coopetition within supply networks for ESG initiatives. This study contributes to the theoretical landscape in two significant ways. First, it demonstrates how critical tangible and intangible resources, such as capabilities for digital transformation, resource complementarity, and innovation culture, play essential roles in coopetition within supply networks for ESG initiatives. This, in turn, facilitates global value creation through interconnected and collaborative regenerative supply chain practices. Second, the study highlights that coopetition in supply networks constitutes a source of competitive advantage for firms striving to achieve superior ESG performance.