Klenk and Hoursch: Beyond Transparency—Transformation Communications for Resilient Value Chains

Georg Lahme () and Jana Schmülling ()
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Georg Lahme: Klenk & Hoursch AG
Jana Schmülling: Klenk & Hoursch AG

A chapter in Sustainable Value Chain Management, 2026, pp 231-252 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract In the context of rising global uncertainties, shifting regulatory landscapes, and eroding stakeholder trust, this chapter explores how strategic communication is evolving into a pivotal function for enabling sustainable transformation across global value chains. Transparency has moved beyond mere reporting—organizations are increasingly expected to engage stakeholders through active, honest dialogue, particularly about ongoing challenges and areas for improvement. The chapter emphasizes that communication is not just about reputation management, but a driver of resilience, internal alignment, and systemic collaboration. Companies face mounting pressure to address sustainability hot spots while fostering engagement around credible actions rather than promotional narratives. Frameworks like PUMO illustrate how integrating communication into sustainability and climate resilience strategies enhances preparedness, innovation, and stakeholder trust. Communicators are urged to act as strategic advisors who bridge silos, moderate multi-stakeholder processes, and foster productive, sometimes confidential, dialogue. With climate-related risks intensifying and political will and regulations fluctuating, the need for clear, consistent, and authentic storytelling has never been greater. Communication departments equipped to moderate both public and closed-shop dialogues are uniquely positioned to guide organizations across complex transformation paths. Sustainability is now a defining metric of long-term success—and communication is central to making it real, relevant, and resilient across industries and supply chains.

Keywords: Global value chains; Supply chain; Sustainability report; Transformation communications (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:csrchp:978-3-032-13293-2_9

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-13293-2_9

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