Purpose-The aim of this empirical paper is to study information sharing in fresh food supply chains, with a specific goal of reducing waste and facilitating sustainable performance. The study focuses on material and information flow issues, specifically on sharing demand and shelf-life data. Design/methodology/approach-This work has been designed as an exploratory case study in three fresh food supply chains, milk, fresh fish, and fresh poultry, in the Nordic countries. The cases are based on interviews and data from the databases of the companies involved. Each case focuses on analyzing information flow, particularly the current order patterns and forecasting and planning process, and material flow, focusing on the supply chain structure. In two cases significant changes have been made to forecasting processes and material flow, while the third case intends to identify the most beneficial uses of shared information to create a sustainable fresh food supply chain. Findings-The performance of the perishable food chain can be improved by more efficient information sharing. The key to improved operations is how and for which purposes the shared data should be used. In addition, changes in the supply chain structure were needed to speed up the deliveries and ensure shelf availability. The cross-case analysis revealed that improved performance was obtained with parallel changes in information sharing and usage and in material flow. Originality/value-Few studies approach the problem of waste and sustainability from an integrated supply chain perspective. This paper links data sharing with the sustainability performance of the supply chain as a whole.

Purpose-This paper presents an operations model for retail replenishment collaboration and identifies its expected benefits and limitations for the members of a grocery supply chain. Design/methodology/approach-A case study is conducted on a development project between a grocery wholesaler and two grocery product suppliers. Data is collected through semi-structured interviews with key respondents from four different companies. Findings-Despite advances in collaborative practices in grocery supply chains, retail store replenishment management faces challenges. In particular, demand exceptions management is a challenge in the grocery industry. A replenishment model called Collaborative Buyer-Managed Forecasting (CBMF) creates a proactive planning approach and a platform for close collaboration in the supply chain. The centralised forecasting transforms retailer sales data into a plan which serves the whole supply chain by creating one order forecast. The CBMF model facilitates efficient demand management, improves demand responsiveness and promotes better availability of products in retail stores. Research limitations/implications-CBMF provides a replenishment planning model for the whole supply chain. It is tested to a limited extent in one supply chain. Practical implications-The study provides managers with a better understanding of the benefits of centralised forecasting and closer replenishment collaboration, especially during periods of exceptional demand. Originality/value-A new approach for managing demand in grocery supply chains with centralised forecasting is provided.