Ethical practices in buyer–supplier relationships in the food industry: exploring the ambivalent role of social bonding mechanisms

Purpose The purpose of this research is to examine how trust, culture and social bonding influence buyer-supplier relationships and ethical practices within the food industry. The study examines the interdependent dynamics among these factors and their influence on ethical conduct across the supply chain. Design/methodology/approach The research was conducted using a qualitative approach which favors information-centric data coding. 23 interviews of buyers, suppliers and NGOs were conducted in Lebanon. The first-order terms are organized into first-order concepts, then grouped into second-order (theory-centric) themes and then merged to form theoretical dimensions. Findings Social bonding mechanisms generally reinforce ethical practices in buyer supplier relationships. However, we observed that social bonding mechanisms can also foster relaxed compliance with formal rules and unethical practices. Research limitations/implications Considering the study's Lebanese agri-food context, shaped by political fragility and social ties, findings inform similar network-based environments. Practical implications Practical recommendations include strengthening formal controls through quality management and information systems, aligning culture and incentives with ethical standards, and leveraging blockchain to enhance transparency in buyer–supplier relationships, particularly where strong relational ties weaken oversight. Originality/value Relational ties between buyers and suppliers grounded in repeated interaction, shared norms and interpersonal trust are often viewed as mechanisms that enhance ethical practices by reducing opportunism and fostering reciprocity. However, this study shows that such ties may also enable informal agreements, preferential treatment and procedural deviations under conditions of strong trust and weak formal control.