Modeling enablers of agile and sustainable sourcing networks in a supply chain: A case of the plastic industry

To compete in emerging markets, a supply chain must perform well. Agile and sustainable sourcing practices can improve supply chain performance; however, their impact needs an optimal evaluation. Although few research studies offer frameworks for integrating agile and sustainable principles, none offer links to implementing these practices in the sourcing networks of a supply chain. The present study seeks to bridge these gaps by developing a framework that identifies and configures the enabling elements for creating agile and sustainable sourcing networks. This study aims to provide an implementable causal model that the plastic industry's supply chain could adopt. In the first phase of the research process, fifteen enablers are identified through literature and validated by Delphi experts. In the second phase, interpretive structural modeling is applied to establish the hierarchical relationships among these enablers and categorize them based on their functionalities. The model is demonstrated based on the real-life case study of a firm manufacturing plastic pipes and fittings. The proposed model identifies the strategic, operational, and performance level enablers and intends to help the managers incorporate the agile and sustainable criteria in their sourcing practices. The findings of this study provide several contributions to the literature and implications for the plastic industry. •Agile and sustainable sourcing practices improve supply chain performance; therefore, their enablers must be evaluated.•The initiation approach of sequential mixed-method research is utilized to achieve the research objectives.•The key enablers are organized to understand their role in modeling the plastic industry's sourcing networks.•The enablers are classified as per their functionalities , i.e., strategic, operational, or performance level enablers.•The proposed model significantly contributes by providing implications to the plastic industry and related firms.