Quality systems and competitive performance of food companies

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of the effective implementation of both ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 systems on the competitive performance of certified food manufacturing companies.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was used for quantitative data collection. All items were measured on a seven‐point modified Likert scale. The data were analysed statistically by means of Statistical Package for Social Scientists. Factor analysis and multiple regression analysis were conducted to test the research hypotheses. Both validity and reliability of the measures were checked in order to reduce the measurement error.

Findings

The results show a positive and significant relationship between the combined effective implementation of ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 standards and competitive performance of certified food companies, explaining a significant proportion of variance in their performance.

Practical implications

The results of this study help managers of food companies realize that both the effective implementation of the quality management and quality safety systems ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 lead to increased competitive performance for certified companies. Thus, the paper may motivate the non‐certified food companies to effectively adopt the principles and conform to the requirements of these standards, leading to enhanced manufacturing capabilities and competitive performance.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the influence of quality and food safety management systems on the competitive performance of the certified food manufacturing companies. It reveals the value of the combined effective implementation of ISO 22000 and ISO 9001:2000 systems, proving that, when effectively implemented, they have a favourable effect on companies' performance.

Citation

Kafetzopoulos, D., Gotzamani, K. and Psomas, E. (2013), "Quality systems and competitive performance of food companies", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 463-483. https://doi.org/10.1108/BIJ-08-2011-0065