Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this paper is to describe motives, conditions and perceived outcomes of public-private partnerships as it currently develops in the forestry industry in Sweden. Design: A comparative case study of three Swedish forest products companies operating nationally, regionally and internationally. The study is based on secondary materials and in-depth-interviews conducted with representatives from the case companies and non-governmental organizations. Findings: Principal business motives for engaging in a public-private partnership relate to the simplified access to expertise and increased corporate legitimacy. A strengthened stakeholder dialogue has enhanced the base for decision-making potentially leading to creation of shared value. Limitations: The paper explores public-private partnerships from a business perspective based on three case studies. Implications: This paper offers insight for corporate decision-makers interested in enhancing dialogue with society and looking for ways to create shared value with a larger set of stakeholders, in low and high income countries. Contribution: This research provides empirical support for perceived social performance outcomes from cross-sectorial collaboration and the opportunities for the creation of shared value in the forest industry sector. Furthermore, the research highlights the need for further research on extending public-private collaborations beyond corporate social responsibility activities to actively contribute to deliberate societal changes through creation of shared value.

Published in

Social Business
2014, Volume: 4, number: 1, pages: 15-31

SLU Authors

• Kokko, Suvi

  • Department of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Mark-Herbert, Cecilia

  • Department of Economics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

Sustainable Development Goals

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns


UKÄ Subject classification

Business Administration


Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1362/204440814X13948909253730

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/52859