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Corporate social responsibility disclosures have benefits, but also come with costs

Published: 6 November 2024

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosures can enhance a company’s public image and contribute to increased sales. However, these benefits may come at a cost. In a study analyzing CSR disclosures from companies in China, where such reporting is mandatory, Associate Professor of Quantitative Marketing and Analytics Vivek Astvansh found that while these disclosures attract customers, they may also discourage new suppliers. "CSR reports resonate well with customers, but they often alienate suppliers," writes Astvansh in an op-ed for The Conversation. "This may be because suppliers frequently shoulder the costs when a company emphasizes social responsibility." This dynamic can result in a company becoming more reliant on its existing suppliers. Astvansh explains, “When suppliers recognize a company’s dependency, they are more likely to demand cash payments instead of credit, which can strain a company’s cash flow and limit funds available for future investments.â€

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