An integrative logistics-policy model of supply chain sustainability in cooperative-based dairy systems: evidence from Thailand

Sustainability remains a major challenge in dairy supply chains in emerging economies, where fragmented logistics systems, limited digital coordination, and institutional constraints often hinder sustainable development. While prior studies have examined logistics capabilities, governance mechanisms, or stakeholder relationships separately, limited empirical research has explored how these factors jointly shape sustainability outcomes in cooperative-based dairy supply chains. This study develops and empirically tests an integrative model linking logistics and policy mechanisms to supply chain sustainability in the dairy sector. Drawing on the Resource-Based View, Institutional Theory, and Stakeholder Theory, the model examines the effects of logistics activities, information and communication management, institutional engagement, customer engagement, and financial benefits on supply chain sustainability. Data were collected from 240 smallholder dairy farmers in cooperative-based supply chains in Thailand and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that logistics activities exert the strongest influence on supply chain sustainability, followed by institutional engagement, customer engagement, financial benefits, and information and communication management. The findings also confirm that supply chain sustainability is a multidimensional construct reflected in economic, environmental, and social dimensions. The study contributes to cleaner logistics and sustainable supply chain research by providing an integrated empirical explanation of how operational capabilities, institutional mechanisms, and stakeholder engagement jointly shape sustainability outcomes in cooperative agri-food supply chains.