Purpose: Efficient interaction between actors within supply chains is crucial for their effectiveness. It could be argued that a certain degree of alignment between the different actors’ business model is a prerequisite for the success of interaction. The purpose is to explore how business model alignment between different supply chain actors is described and analysed in the context of Supply Chain Management (SCM).
Design/methodology/approach: A systematic literature review on business models in the context of SCM was performed. Based on holistic meta-business model (Kindström, 2005), the findings were analysed with respect to the business model and to the supply chain.
Findings: The findings confirm that business models in the context of SCM is a relatively unexplored area, and that the topic has been addressed in a wide variety of journals.In relation to the supply chain, alignment is discussed between buyers and suppliers, between actors in the transport provision chain, between the supply chain and the transport provision chain, and internally. Overall, alignment between buyers and suppliers is confirmed as positive for supply chain performance.
Research limitations/implications: The results provide bases for further research into more focused areas within the business model frame. In particular, the connection between transport provision and their suppliers –the automotive industry –is missing in the literature.
Original/value: The business model concept is poorly addressed with the perspective of alignment. Research into business model alignment can contribute to literature on strategic SCM.