Abstract

Purpose—This conceptual article details the evolution of purchasing research, and describes
the increasing integration of purchasing with other strategic functions, in order to identify key
trends in purchasing practices, together with their implications for purchasing research.
Design/Methodology/Approach—This study takes a conceptual approach and reviews prior
literature to describe the field and predict future developments.
Findings—Purchasing is increasingly integrated with different business functions, such as
strategy, marketing, decision making and supply chain management. Key real-world trends
include sustainable and ethical purchasing, purchasing in the digital economy, supply chain
risk management and public sector purchasing. These trends suggest both avenues for further
research and specific methodologies to pursue them.
Originality/value—By providing a comprehensive overview of the trends in purchasing
practice and research, this study offers unique insights, especially for researchers who seek to
continue expanding the field.