SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This research explores the correlation between supply chain management practices and the sustainability performance of manufacturing companies operating in Nigeria. The study is primarily theoretical, drawing insights from existing literature on the subject matter. Analysis of the literature indicates a positive correlation between two key sustainable supply chain management practices—sustainable procurement and reverse logistics—and the sustainability performance of manufacturing firms. Therefore, it is concluded that to foster positive impacts on sustainability performance, supply chain management practices must integrate sustainable approaches such as sustainable procurement and reverse logistics. In light of these findings, managers and owners of manufacturing companies in developing markets like Nigeria are encouraged to: prioritize efforts in enhancing employees' awareness of sustainability and promoting a culture of sustainable procurement and reverse logistics across their supply chains (including employees, wholesalers, distributors, and consumers) to achieve sustainable manufacturing and environmental preservation. Additionally, they should formalize sustainable supply chain activities such as sustainable procurement and reverse logistics by embedding them into their strategic plans and enforcing stringent guidelines. By doing so, these organizations can enhance their sustainability performance by minimizing uncertainty, defining sustainability objectives, optimizing operations, boosting employee morale, meeting customer demands, and reducing waste.