Sustainable manufacturing practices and sustainable performance: Evidence from Ghana’s food manufacturing sector

Abstract

This study investigated the combined effects of inventory, green, supply and lean manufacturing practices on the sustainable performance (environmental [EP], social [SP] and economic [EcP] performances) of food manufacturing enterprises in emerging economies like Ghana. The study adopted the quantitative approach and explanatory research design. Primary data was obtained from 247 owners and managers of food manufacturing enterprises in Ghana through structured questionnaires. Twelve hypotheses were developed and tested using the partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) analytical tool. The study’s results revealed that inventory and green manufacturing practices directly influenced sustainable performance (SP, EP, and EcP), while lean manufacturing practices had an insignificant influence on economic performance. Supply management, on the other hand, significantly improved only economic performance. The outcome of the study provides valuable information for food manufacturers in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa. The outcome will provide more robust support for food manufacturers to invest heavily into sustainable supply chain management practices such as inventory, green and lean while establishing stronger relationships with key suppliers to guarantee a consistent supply of raw materials; thereby, promoting sustainable performance. This study contributes to the current literature on sustainable supply chain management and sustainable performance with concrete evidence from food manufacturing enterprises within an emerging economy.