A Conceptual Model for Sustainability in Barter Business Models: Goods and Services Barter in the C2C Domain: A Meta-Synthesis Approach

Abstract

The present study was conducted with the aim of presenting a conceptual model for sustainability in barter business models, specifically goods and services barter in the consumer-to-consumer (C2C) domain, using a meta-synthesis approach. In terms of purpose, the study is exploratory, and in terms of approach, it is qualitative. The research method employed is meta-synthesis, which is used to integrate, analyze, and interpret the findings of previous studies. The research data were collected through a systematic review of valid scientific articles in the fields of barter and sustainability. Subsequently, using thematic analysis, the sustainability components of barter-based businesses were extracted and categorized. Finally, based on the results, a conceptual model of sustainability for barter-based businesses was developed. The results of data analysis indicate that various elements have been introduced in the scientific literature as sustainability components of barter-based businesses. In the present study, these components were extracted through a systematic review approach by examining scientific studies published between 2010 and 2026. The results show that components such as reducing the need for liquidity, reducing capital pressure, improving non-monetary cash flow, economic resilience under crisis conditions, optimal use of surplus inventory, reducing the risk of inventory accumulation, and reducing operational costs are discussed in the economic domain. In addition, factors such as extending product life, recirculation of goods, reducing waste and losses, reducing the environmental impacts of the supply chain, reducing pollutant emissions, and promoting environmental awareness have been discussed in relation to the environment and environmental issues. The results also indicate that components such as participation and voluntary cooperation, reducing social inequality, equitable access to goods and services, and critical consumer awareness in the institutional domain, as well as components such as the institutional legitimacy of barter-based businesses, social acceptance of barter, an organizational culture supportive of barter, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the domain of technology and infrastructure, have been identified in the scientific literature as sustainability components of barter-based businesses.