Purpose of this paper This paper aims at exploring how retail chains with a “green image” handle green logistics actions, green logistics measurements applied and what green aspects are included in their contracts with logistics service providers (LSPs).

Design/methodology/approach An explorative multiple case study of three retail chains with a green image operating on the Swedish market is carried out. Empirical data is collected from the retail chains’ sustainability reports and home pages. Interviews with logistics managers are carried out.

Findings Differences have been identified among the cases, which resulted in a classification model. Different shades of green were also found within the respective retail chains. The green image corresponds well to the green logistics actions. However there are more levels to judge; the measurement systems are not yet developed to follow up these actions. Contract handling is more developed than measurements among retail chains, which is positive as this is a way of ensuring that LSPs are involved. Greenwashing is more nuanced, going deeper under the surface.

Research limitations/implications This explorative study is an attempt to spread light on how to describe green logistics in some Swedish retail chains.

Practical implications The practical contribution is mainly related to the classification model, or a green logistics scorecard, that can be one way for managers to easily judge the “greenness” of supply chain partners.

Originality/value Few empirical studies capture how retail chains measure environmental logistics performance and even fewer concern contracts stipulating the environmental demands placed on LSPs.