Sustainable development concept and creation of innovative business models by retail chains

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to recognise the areas of implementation of the principles of sustainable development (SD) in the model of retail chains activity. In the paper, the assumption was made that nowadays it is necessary to adopt the rules following SD while making strategic decisions by retail chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses secondary data sources, reports, academic literature and the case study research method. A case study research is a multi-method paradigm based on full range of a scientist’s tool-kit: reviewing literature studies, examining secondary documents and comparing the websites of investigated retail chains.

Findings

According to that business model, the authors were recognising selected components of this model, that is to say: recourses and competences of retail chains and value proposition for their customers. The greatest chances of development will be enjoyed by those retail chains that will be able to provide real value to customers. Maintaining a competitive advantage will require constant improvements in the quality of service and innovative business models connected with sustainable elements.

Research limitations/implications

It seems necessary to develop research tools that allow for identification of the level of use of the SD concept in retail chain’s business models in the future.

Practical implications

The paper is of interest to practitioners and students of retail management.

Social implications

The concept of the SD model included in the retailer business models serves to build value for the customer through the care of his quality of life. The vast majority of retailers believe that it is the responsibility of the business sector to respond to social and environmental challenges.

Originality/value

The paper intends to fill the gap in the literature concerning the influence of SD concept on changes in the business models of retail chains. The SD activities can lead to the development of specific capabilities based on intangible recourses that are sources of competitive advantage (SD). That is the main reason of undertaking this subject.

Citation

Bilińska-Reformat, K., Kucharska, B., Twardzik, M. and Dolega, L. (2019), "Sustainable development concept and creation of innovative business models by retail chains", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol. 47 No. 1, pp. 2-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJRDM-04-2017-0071