ASSESSING THE ROLE OF SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT IN ENHANCING SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE: A STUDY IN BANGLADESH

Abstract

This research aims to explore the significance of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices in the context of Bangladesh, an emerging economy with a growing manufacturing sector. The study investigates the impact of SRM on supply chain performance, adaptation to local challenges, and key success factors for effective implementation. A qualitative research design was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 35 professionals from diverse organizations in Bangladesh. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. The findings revealed that SRM practices in Bangladesh have a positive influence on supply chain performance, emphasizing long-term relationships, cost reduction, quality improvement, and supply stability. Key success factors include clear communication, trust-building, adaptability to local challenges, and navigating regulatory complexities. Participants recommended greater technological integration and training programs for cultural sensitivity and negotiation skills. This research focuses on the specific context of Bangladesh, and the findings may not be universally applicable. Future research can extend the study to other emerging economies for comparative analysis. The study offers practical insights for organizations operating in Bangladesh and similar emerging markets, highlighting the value of tailored SRM practices and the need to balance cost efficiency and supply chain stability. Effective SRM practices contribute to economic growth and job opportunities in emerging economies, fostering social development. This research contributes to the understanding of SRM practices in emerging economies, with a focus on the Bangladesh context, and provides valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in the field of supply chain management. The primary limitation of this study is its focus on a single emerging economy, which restricts the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, the study relies on self-reported data from participants, which may introduce response bias.