A systematic analysis of quality management in agri-food supply chains: a hierarchy of capabilities perspective

Purpose This paper aims to systematically review the literature on quality management in agri-food supply chains (SCs) and propose an integrated conceptual framework. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review that analyses 93 papers in peer-reviewed academic journals published from 1996 to November 2021 is conducted. A conceptual model is advanced. Findings Based on a hierarchy of capabilities perspective, the authors develop an integrated conceptual framework in which SC quality (SCQ) management practices promote three levels of SC dynamic capabilities, which in turn lead to agri-food SCQ performance. Originality/value The authors propose a hierarchy of capabilities perspective of quality management in agri-food SCs and develop a conceptual framework. Furthermore, a number of propositions based on dynamic capabilities and the review findings are provided. Four future research directions are presented.