Jiqin Han, Hualiang Lu, Jacques H. Trienekens and S.W.F. (Onno) Omta
Supply chain integration (SCI) is one of the most distinctive dimensions in achieving long‐term competitive advantage in the business world. Although considerable state‐of‐the‐art…
Abstract
Purpose
Supply chain integration (SCI) is one of the most distinctive dimensions in achieving long‐term competitive advantage in the business world. Although considerable state‐of‐the‐art studies regarding the SCI concept and its dimensions have been conducted, empirical research by using the data from agri‐food firms in China to examine the relationship between SCI and firm performance attract little attention. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of SCI on firm performance in pork supply chains in China.
Design/methodology/approach
The study follows a causal research approach and survey methodology to collect data from 229 pork processors. The SCI‐firm performance link is examined in two relationships: the pork processors with their upstream pig (meat) suppliers and with their downstream customers. Partial least squares method was used to test the causal relationships.
Findings
The results suggest that internal integration and buyer‐supplier relationship coordination are significantly related to firm performance in both relationships. Information technology integration is not significantly related to both upstream and downstream relationships. Logistics integration significantly contributes to pork processors' performance in relationships with downstream customers.
Originality/value
The extension of the SCI construct contributes to supply chain management theory in the context of China.
Details
Keywords
Jiqin Han, Jacques H. Trienekens and S.W.F. (Onno) Omta
This paper seeks to discuss the interactions amongst integrated information technology (IT), integrated logistics management, quality management practices and firm performance of…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to discuss the interactions amongst integrated information technology (IT), integrated logistics management, quality management practices and firm performance of pork processors in China.
Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual framework was developed by examining the relationship between pork processors and their customers. A stratified random sample of 229 pork processors in eastern China provided data for empirical testing with partial least squares analysis.
Findings
Results revealed that integrated IT and integrated logistics management improved the quality management practices of the pork processors. The application of IT also facilitated integrated logistics management. While quality management practices had significant impact on firm performance, the findings indicated neither integrated IT nor integrated logistics management was significantly related to firm performance. However, integrated IT had an indirect impact on firm performance through quality management practices.
Practical implications
This study sheds light on the critical role of integrated information and logistics management in pork quality management. For business managers, a high level of firm performance greatly depends on quality management practices. The issue of improving IT and logistics management remains a challenging task for managers in the pork processing sector in mainland China.
Originality/value
Quantitative empirical study of the effects of integrated IT and logistics management on firm performance of the agrifood supply chain in China fills an important gap in research.