Socially Responsible Supply Chain: The Roles of Stakeholder Pressure and Supply Chain Ambidexterity

Abstract

As stakeholder expectations evolve, firms face growing pressure to adopt socially responsible supply chain (SRSC) initiatives. Grounded in stakeholder theory, this study examines the distinct roles of primary and secondary stakeholder pressures in shaping SRSC, and the varying conditions under which secondary stakeholder pressure (SSP) interacts with primary stakeholder pressure (PSP)–SRSC relationship. Using survey data from 285 manufacturing firms in Ghana, we find that PSP directly drives SRSC initiatives, while SSP does not. However, supply chain ambidexterity, which balances alignment and adaptability, partially mediates the PSP–SRSC link and fully mediates the SSP–SRSC relationship. The moderation effect of SSP on the path between PSP and SRSC was not supported. This study makes key contributions. First, it highlights manufacturing firms' role in socio-economic development by enhancing productivity while ensuring the welfare of supply chain actors. Second, the distinct effects of stakeholder pressures provide contextual insights and opportunities for theoretical extension. Finally, firms and policymakers must foster an environment where secondary stakeholders, such as the media, can meaningfully influence SRSC agendas.