Examining sustainability performance in the supply chain: The case of the Greek dairy sector

• We test an interdisciplinary framework where marketing and operations, sustainability-related indicators are integrated.
• The large dairy manufacturers are the “sustainability performance champions” followed by catering firms and wholesalers.
• Breeders underperform in delivery to extra point of sales and total evaluation of firm’s performance.
• A concerning finding relates to poor product conservation time where urgent action is needed by all supply chain members.

This paper evaluates the sustainability performance of the Greek dairy chain and the performance of its individual members by using key indicators in relation to efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness and product quality. We assessed the importance of these indicators based on the relevant perceptions of key members of this chain. A structured questionnaire was developed where nineteen sustainability-related issues were examined. Two hundred and fifty three members of the Greek dairy supply chain responded including breeders, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and catering companies. Our findings illustrate the immediate need for improvement in many key sustainability performance indicators. They also show the critical role of large dairy manufacturers who are the “sustainability performance champions” in this chain and are the driving force for the implementation of many sustainability initiatives.