Cooperating to enhance the supply chain performance of Saudi Arabian manufacturing organisations

Abstract

This study provides a comparative analysis of the impact of cooperation on supply chain performance in small and medium size firms (SMEs) and large manufacturing organisations operating in Saudi Arabia. Then, we investigate the moderating effects of both cost and responsiveness strategies on the links between cooperation and supply chain performance of SMEs and large firms. To this end, we first empirically identify the underlying dimensions of cooperation, agile strategies, cost strategies, and supply chain performance. Second, a series of regression analyses is undertaken to estimate the impact of the study's constructs on the supply chain performance of SMEs and large firms. The results are discussed comparatively within the contexts of both Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. The study makes a significant contribution to the extant literature through obtaining and analysing cross-company size survey data of cooperation practices, responsiveness, and cost strategies in emerging country markets.