Communication Strategies for Building Sustainable Supplier Relationships: A Study of Italian Dining Practices

This study investigates the communication strategies employed by Italian dining establishments to build sustainable supplier relationships. The importance of effective communication in fostering collaboration and ensuring mutual understanding between restaurants and suppliers is critically analyzed. The research utilizes a qualitative approach, involving in-depth interviews with key stakeholders from 26 Italian restaurants and their suppliers. The findings reveal that transparency and clarity in communication serve as foundational elements in establishing trust, allowing both parties to align their sustainability objectives effectively. Additionally, the research highlights the significance of collaboration in decision-making processes, where restaurants engage suppliers in menu planning and sustainability initiatives, promoting innovative solutions that enhance sustainability. Technological advancements also play a crucial role in streamlining communication and facilitating real-time updates, ultimately improving supplier engagement. However, challenges such as cost barriers, cultural differences, and logistical constraints present significant hurdles to achieving sustainable practices. The study emphasizes the need for tailored communication strategies to overcome these challenges and suggests that incentives can motivate suppliers to adhere to sustainability goals. Furthermore, the influence of consumer demand for sustainable products drives suppliers to adapt their practices in alignment with restaurant expectations. The findings underscore the necessity of crisis management communication strategies to navigate disruptions within the supply chain. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights into the interplay between communication and sustainability in the Italian dining sector, providing a framework for restaurants to enhance their supplier relationships and promote sustainable practices effectively.