Supply chain innovation and energy efficiency retrofits in China: Empirical evidence from listed companies (2000–2023)

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the relationship between supply chain innovations and energy efficiency retrofits among listed companies in China.
• Analyzed data from listed companies in China from 2000 to 2023
• Examined relationships between retrofit investments and innovation outcomes
• Assessed the impact of supplier market power on innovation incentives.
• Downstream retrofit investment stimulates upstream radical innovation.
• Supplier retrofit spending crowds out radical innovation capacity.
• Environmental pressure drives radical rather than incremental innovation.