Sustainable E-Procurement Adoption and Practices in the Pandemic Era

Abstract

: Purpose: This research aimed to explore how to address the opportunities and challenges of sustainable e-procurement practices in the pandemic era. Particularly in developing a conceptual framework to evaluate different factors influencing sustainable e-procurement adoption in Hong Kong during the outbreak of COVID-19. Design/Methodology/Approach: To test the hypotheses, data were collected from 69 members of The Institute of Purchasing and Supply of Hong Kong. Investigation was conducted to study how respondents feel about their companies’ daily sustainable practices during the pandemic, the driving factors that promote adoption of e-procurement, and the effectiveness of such acts. Findings: E-procurement is a way to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable business in the future. The results showed that operational efficiency, cost effectiveness and employee acknowledgment are the top three factors for the adoption. However, due to pandemic, companies need to adapt to new suppliers, and it could be hard for firms to collaborate without face-to-face communications. Companies need to prepare sustainability assessments and Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) reports according to law. Finally, strengthening the connection between e-procurement and sustainable development can improve capabilities and performance. Practical Implications: The results helped provide a new insight for company performance and business sustainability. Originality/value: To the extent of our knowledge, this study is the pioneer investigation into new insight about the major drivers for e-procurement adoption for e-business firms.