Supplier Performance Research Articles

IMPROVING INTEGRITY HALAL SUPPLIER IN FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN: SCOPING REVIEW

Ensuring integrity in a halal supplier is important for maintaining the trust of consumers who seek halal products. Any compromise in the integrity of the supplier can lead to a loss of confidence in the halal status of their products. In this review will identify what the main key finding will increase integrity in supplier and the objective of this review is to produce a comprehensive mapping next future research and the main themes related to halal supplier in food supply chain. Method: A scoping review of the literature was conducted between 2018 and 2023 using the Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases to identify what is the nature of published scientific literature on this topic. A total of 13 journal articles were identified for a full review. Result: Five themes were found from the literaturerelevant to food supply chain integrity through halal supplier. The main themes include perceive value, transparency, technology, standard of procedure and supplier integration. The review indicates that most of the studies are conducted in understanding the supplier efficiency in supply chain. Conclusion: The emergence of findings regarding suppliers in the halal food supply chain will assist in the investigation of halal providers, while also providing significant insights for researchers and practitioners in their respective fields. Moreover, these reviews will be helpful in the supervision of suppliers in the halal food supply chain. This offers future research to more comprehensive research is required to further investigate the performance of halal supplier in food supply chain.

The interdisciplinary curriculum alignment to enhance graduates' employability and universities’ sustainability

The employability of university graduates mainly depends upon the skillset they acquire through curriculum, subject specializations, and pedagogical practice. Contemporary analytical, big data-driven, and IT-based skills are imperative for supply chain graduates and business schools' sustainability. This study aims to provide directions and guidelines on the curriculum framework that offers an equilibrium of qualitative and quantitative skills for supply chain management graduates' employment and relative sustainability for universities. We utilized a three-pronged methodology to identify analytical, big data-driven, and IT-based skills. First, literature review was used to identify 18 criteria organized into 3 themes. Second, we conducted interpretive content analysis of the curricula of 38 Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredited supply chain management programs across the world. Third, in-depth interviews with 16 leading academics and industry experts were conducted to conclude the study and draw meaningful insights. Specific solutions aimed at combating the contemporary challenges and the implications of redesigning interdisciplinary curricula for students in specialized business programs – such as supply chains, logistics, and operations – are also offered. This research provides new insights to continuously improve interdisciplinary curricula, enhancing students' employability and contributing to universities’ financial sustainability.

Optimizing risk mitigation in maritime supply chains through strategic supplier relationship management

Modern supply chains face escalating vulnerabilities, especially in the maritime industry. Traditional lean supply chain management lacks flexibility and risk mitigation measures, encouraging the proposal of agile-focused SCM. The success of companies is intricately tied to supplier performance, highlighting the pivotal role of procurement in risk mitigation through supplier relationship management (SRM) strategies. This emphasizes the role of procurement in risk mitigation since they manage suppliers using supplier relationship management (SRM) strategies. To properly apply SRM strategies, suppliers are segmented. The standard segmentation method is the Purchasing Portfolio Matrix (PPM). The downfall of this matrix is the focus on power relations, which misses a softer relationship side of SRM. The Supplier Potential Matrix (SPM) includes relationship dynamics but overlooks supply risk. A new matrix for segmentation is proposed, the Integrated Supplier Matrix (ISM), which combines and integrates the PPM and SPM. A case study in a maritime company assesses risks using the Best-Worst Method (BWM), revealing significant procurement risks such as product uniqueness, regulatory compliance, and external factors. The ISM then establishes relationships between supplier willingness, capabilities, risks, and profit impact. The findings emphasize the critical role of communication and trust in managing trade-offs within supplier relationship management (SRM).

Numerical Study of the Influence of Regenerator Structure on the Performance of Hot Blast Stoves

The properties and arrangement of checker bricks in regenerators are crucial for the heat exchange process of hot blast stoves. In this study, a 3D fluid flow heat transfer model is established to analyze the influence of three regenerator layered structures on the combustion and air supply performance of hot blast stoves. The results show that a “silica bricks–high-alumina bricks–clay bricks” three-layer arrangement in regenerators produces a “thermal conduction hindrance effect” at the interface between silica and high-alumina bricks during the 2 h combustion period, which raises the local temperature and improves air supply performance. Compared to the “silica bricks–clay bricks” and “high-alumina bricks–silica bricks–clay bricks” structures, this setup increases the maximum air supply temperature difference to 23 and 64 K, respectively, and extends the effective air supply time by 80 and 320 s, respectively. However, the “thermal conduction hindrance effect” diminishes over longer combustion periods, and by 4 h, the performance across all structures becomes increasingly consistent. Additionally, the study suggests that the temperature level and distribution in the upper part of the regenerator are the key factors determining the air supply performance of hot blast stoves.

Integrating flexibility and sustainability in supply chains: a practice-based view on leadership, knowledge and digital quality management practices

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the synergy between supply chain flexibility and sustainable supply chain management in the manufacturing industry. The study also investigates the roles of leadership practice, knowledge management practice and digital quality management practice in promoting supply chain flexibility that leads to sustainable supply operations from a practice-based perspective.Design/methodology/approachThe authors developed a self-administered questionnaire and distributed it amongst manufacturing executives in India. Data were collected from 347 executives. Before moving on to assumptions, such as constant variance and normality, we have analysed them to check for possible nonresponse bias. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to check the data’s reliability and consistency. PLS-SEM was used to validate the constructs and verify the hypotheses.FindingsThe findings indicate that knowledge practice and digital quality management practice, augmented by effective leadership practice, are positively associated with supply chain flexibility in the manufacturing sector. Further, the findings indicate a positive relationship between flexibility and supply chain sustainability.Originality/valueThe novelty of this study lies in the developed framework, wherein the authors attempted to rope in both flexibility and sustainability measures. The findings bridge a gap in the literature, especially in the context of the manufacturing industry, by demonstrating how leadership, KNP and DQMP collectively influence SCF and, ultimately, supply chain sustainability.

Electrification of Agricultural Machinery: One Design Case of a 4 kW Air Compressor

In response to the global pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions, the electrification of agricultural machinery is becoming a significant research and development trend. This study introduces the overall design of a 4 kW air compressor aimed at achieving a green vision for agricultural machinery. The design focuses on providing continuous and stable power and air output using a lithium-ion battery. Durability and cost-effectiveness are prioritized, with a particular emphasis on the Arduino system for integrating battery and motor systems to withstand harsh conditions and ensure ease of maintenance. A permanent magnet brushless motor was selected as the power source, paired with an optimized pulley to supply the proper torque to the air compressor. The system employs an Arduino-based feedback control sensor for air pressure regulation, ensuring energy efficiency. The primary energy source is a 48 V lithium iron phosphate battery, known for its high energy density and safety. The battery design focuses on system integration, addressing specific environmental discharge requirements. The embedded battery management system provides thermal and lifecycle parameter estimation, guaranteeing long-duration power supply and safe operation under various conditions. Unlike traditional fuel-driven systems, lithium iron phosphate batteries do not emit harmful gases, aligning with environmental standards. System integration testing demonstrated that the air pressure feedback control effectively meets the energy-saving requirements by digitally reducing power output as air accumulates in the chamber. Bench testing confirmed that the system performs as designed, achieving the desired results and advancing the goal of sustainable agricultural machinery.

The Effect of Suppliers’ Green and Traditional Selection Criteria in Supply Chain Management on Purchasing Firms’ Performance

In recent years, procurement managers have introduced environmental considerations into supplier selection and evaluation as a response to strict environmental regulations implemented by governments. Although previous research investigated the selection of eco-friendly suppliers, little research has been conducted on the significance of the wide range of selection criteria used by industrial customers. The aim of this study was to address this gap and examine the difference in the perceived importance of the selection criteria versus the performance achieved using the selection criteria, in addition to the difference in the business performance and the total supply performance. By investigating the selection criteria of manufacturers in the market environment, this study aimed to demonstrate how their business performance was affected by the performance of suppliers in relation to such criteria. To accomplish this task, this study conducted an empirical analysis based on the questionnaire responses of 72 purchasing managers working in the electrical/electronic and heavy chemical industries. Based on previous research, the following six supplier selection factors were identified: eco-friendliness, quality, relationship, flexibility, delivery, and price/finance. By using statistical analyses, including sample t-tests and multiple regression analysis, this study identified a correlation between supplier and manufacturer performance. The findings show that some factors, such as eco-friendliness, flexibility, price, and delivery, were statistically relevant to the performance of manufacturers, which added value to the decision-making strategy employed in supplier selection.

Effect of Supplier Appraisal on Performance of Construction Projects of Counties in Lake Region Economic Bloc, Kenya

Procurement Laws and Regulations 2015 are a yard stick that directs how buying of goods, services, and works by governments and state-owned businesses should be conducted (Thiankolu, 2019). However, there exists an absence of compliance to these laws as envisaged by its framers which results to bias and uncompetitive bidding, evaluation and award of contracts process something that compromises the effectiveness of the project's accomplishment (Kagume & Wamalwa, 2018). The primary objective relating to this research entailed investigating the effect of supplier appraisal on performance of construction projects of counties in Lake Region Economic Bloc, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design with stratified random sampling technique being applied to select a sample of 342 respondents from a total population of 2346 county officials that include finance and procurement officers. A survey instrument was utilized for gathering data, using questions that were both open and closed-ended. The survey instrument was piloted in Marsabit County. It was conducted to ensure that the instrument is both valid and reliable. SPSS was used to perform analysis of data. Supplier appraisal was established to have a positive and significant correlation on the performance of counties in Lake Region Economic Bloc with a co-efficient of correlation R value of 0.816 and P<0.05. Supplier appraisal with a coefficient of determination (R2=0.700, P<0.05) could account for 70% of variation in the performance of construction projects if other factors were to be held constant. Specifically, when Supplier appraisal increases by a single unit, there will be a subsequent increase in performance of construction projects by 0.885 units (β1=0.885, P<0.05). This suggests a positive and strong correlation between supplier appraisal and performance of construction projects and thus the study suggests that evaluating suppliers using technical, financial, and legal criteria might help construction projects succeed in Kenya's Lake Region Economic Bloc.

The value of data, machine learning, and deep learning in restaurant demand forecasting: Insights and lessons learned from a large restaurant chain

The restaurant industry has been slow to adopt analytics for the supply chain, operations, and demand forecasting, with limited research on this sector. The COVID-19 pandemic's significant impact on the restaurant industry, one of the hardest-hit sectors, has underscored the need for digital technologies and advanced analytics for managing supply chains and making operational decisions. This paper presents a collaborative study with one of the largest restaurant chains in the United States, highlighting the value of advanced data analytics in forecasting restaurant demand. The study offers insights into the benefit of integrating external data, including macroeconomic and pandemic-related factors, into demand forecasting. It explores traditional machine learning algorithms and state-of-the-art deep learning architectures, evaluating their effectiveness in the context of the restaurant industry. The paper further discusses the implications of utilizing advanced forecasting models, providing valuable insights for the restaurant industry in the face of supply chain disruptions and pandemics.

Supply chain digitalization and sports industry performance in Chinese context: a mediated moderated model

PurposeIn era of industry 4.0 all the organizations are investing their resources so they can adopt the latest technologies with no exception of supply chain. Accordingly, the present study attempted to examine the influence of digitalization of supply chain and performance in context of Chinese sports industry. Additionally, it has considered the supply chain integration and time management as a mechanism along with boundary condition of supply chain resilience.Design/methodology/approachThe study followed positivism philosophy and adopted quantitative methods. The data were collected by using the questionnaire from the Chinese sport industry organizations’ professionals related to logistics and supply chain. A total 746 questionnaires were distributed and 570 of them subjected to SPSS and Smart PLS for data analysis. Hypotheses were tested using PLS-SEM through the Smart-PLS 4.FindingsThe results of the study revealed that supply chain digitalization positively influences the both internal and external supply chain integration. Moreover, supply chain planning and scheduling influenced by both internal and external supply chain integration lead by supply chain digitalization. Ultimately resulting in improved sports industry performance. However, the supply chain resilience did not found as a significant moderator.Originality/valueThe study is few of the attempts that have tested a comprehensive mechanism through which the supply chain digitalization lead towards the higher performance. Also, the study results signify that the digitization can help the organizations to accomplish superior performance specifically in sports industry.

Exploring the nexus of industry dynamism, climate risk exposure and mental health and well-being of owners of small and micro-sized suppliers: implications for sustainable supply chain management

PurposeAlthough climate change-related risks affect all stakeholders along the supply chain, the potential impact on small and micro-sized suppliers is incredibly excessive. The corresponding toll of these climate risk threats on the mental health and well-being of owners of small and micro-sized suppliers can adversely affect their participation in sustainability efforts, ultimately impacting the firm's performance. This often-overlooked dynamic forms the core of our research. We probe into two pivotal aspects: how industry dynamism and climate risk affect the mental health and well-being of owners of small and micro-sized suppliers and how, in turn, dictate involvement and, consequently, supply chain sustainability performance. This is further nuanced by the moderating role of the abusive behavior of buyers.Design/methodology/approachOur study is built on resource dependency theory and the supporting empirical evidence is fortified by a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. This study comprises three phases. In the first phase, our experiment examines the effect of industry dynamism and climate risk exposure on sustainable supply chain management performance. Hypotheses H1a and H1b are tested in the first phase. The second phase involves using a survey and structural equation modeling to test the comprehensiveness of the model. Here, the relationship between industry dynamism, climate risk exposure, mental health and well-being of owners of small and micro-sized supplier firms, supplier involvement and sustainable supply chain management (H2–H7) is tested in the second phase. In the third phase, we adopt a qualitative approach to verify and provide descriptive explanations of phase two findings.FindingsOur findings underscore the significance of small and micro-sized suppliers in sustainability, offering invaluable insights for both theoretical understanding and practical implementation. Our study highlights that buyers must allocate sufficient resources to support small and micro-sized supplier firms and collaborate closely to address climate change and its impacts.Practical implicationsThe key takeaway from this study is that buyer firms should consider SDG 3, which focuses on the good health and well-being of their employees and the mental health and well-being of owners of small and micro-sized suppliers in their upstream supply chain. This approach enhances sustainability performance in supply chains.Originality/valueThis is one of the first studies that shows that industry dynamism and climate risk exposure can negatively impact small and micro-sized suppliers in the presence of a contextual element, i.e. abusive behavior of buyers, and ultimately, it negatively impacts sustainable supply chain performance dimensions.

The ‎Pump-Power Supplies Performance to Raise the Water from Wells in the Wadi El-Natrun Region

The ‎Pump-Power Supplies Performance to Raise the Water from Wells in the Wadi El-Natrun Region

Research on Environmental Performance and Measurement of Smart City Power Supply Based on Non Radial Network DEA

The continuous development of smart cities has put forward higher requirements for the supply of power systems. In response to the constraints in the environmental performance and measurement of smart city power supply, this paper proposes a research model for smart city power supply environmental performance and measurement based on non-radial network DEA based on the characteristics of DEA model and distance function. This model can combine different stages of power supply to conduct more reasonable statistics and analysis of efficiency in different regions. In addition, correlation coefficients were analyzed for the impact of efficiency factors on the phase ratio in the production and sales stages of the power supply system. The research results indicate that there is a positive correlation between the output value and power generation of electricity sales and the efficiency of the electricity sales stage, with correlation coefficients of 0.57 and 0.092, respectively; The length of newly added lines, capacity of new equipment, and line loss rate are all negatively correlated with their efficiency, with correlation coefficients of −0.42, −0.12, and −0.46, respectively. Based on the above analysis, this study provides more theoretical support for the study of environmental performance and measurement of smart city power supply.

Enhancing Supply Chain Safety and Security: A Novel AI-Assisted Supplier Selection Method

The "Make or Buy” decision and the supplier selection are critical steps for the efficient operation of companies' supply chains. Safety and security are paramount considerations, especially in industries like logistics, where supply chains are vulnerable to external threats and disruptions. In this scientific article, we present a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted supplier selection method that significantly enhances the safety and security of suppliers. During our research project, we have created an expert system and a corresponding knowledge base with the relevant rules to support supply chain decision-makers in selecting logistics service providers for warehousing services. The foundation of the AI-assisted supplier selection method is advanced data analytics and the application of expert systems, enabling companies to evaluate potential suppliers in detail from a safety and security perspective. The applied expert systems can identify potential risks and make predictions about supplier performance in the future. In the turbulent environment of the global supply chain, selecting long-term partners like warehousing services providers is critical for the success of the organization. A wrong supplier selection can hardly be reversed in warehousing services, as the cost of change is usually high. The article demonstrates the practical application of the expert system-assisted supplier selection method in a real-world supply chain environment and thoroughly analyzes the achieved results and advantages. The results show that the expert system-assisted method not only increases supplier safety and security but also contributes to improving the efficiency and sustainability of the supply chain. This article provides valuable guidance and solutions for companies looking to enhance their supplier selection using expert system technologies, thereby increasing the safety and security of their supply chains.

Strategic alignment between supply chain partners and cost stickiness of suppliers

AbstractWe investigate the relationship between strategic alignment between suppliers and their major customers and the asymmetric behavior of costs, specifically cost of goods sold (COGS) and selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) costs. Utilizing mandated disclosures regarding major customers from 1978 to 2018, we construct supplier–customer dyads to examine this connection. Our results indicate a positive association between strategic alignment in supply chain partnerships and the stickiness of COGS and SG&A costs for suppliers. This positive association is more pronounced for suppliers in the early stages of their relationships than those with long-term partnerships. Additionally, strategic alignment increases the stickiness of suppliers’ research and development (R&D) costs. Furthermore, we observe that strategic alignment correlates with an extended duration of supplier–customer relationships and improved supplier performance. Our findings hold across alternative constructs of strategic alignment, various supplier strategy types, and when accounting for characteristics of the supply-chain relationship.

Influence of Electronic Procurement Adoption on the Performance of Manufacturing Firms’ Supply Management in Kenya. Case of Nairobi County

The implementation of efficient management of the supply network has been determined as a potentially beneficial way for achieving a competitive edge and enhancing overall organizational performance. This study investigates the effect that electronic procurement (e-procurement) has on the operational success and effectiveness of supply management in the manufacturing sector in Kenya. The objective of this research is to evaluate the influence of e-supplier appraisal, electronic resource planning (ERP), and electronic order processing on the supply management outcomes and performance within the select firms. The goal of this investigation is to establish a conceptual model and define three key dimensions that include e-supplier appraisal, e-order processing, and electronic resource planning. The research methodology employs descriptive research, utilizing a sample size of 120 participants that were be chosen using stratified sampling methodology. The acquisition of primary data was facilitated by employing questionnaires of which 92 respondents participated. The gathered data was subjected to analysis using SPSS statistical software and subsequently presented in the form of graphical representations and tabular formats. Furthermore, a regression analysis was administered to ascertain the correlation between e-procurement dimensions and supply management results. The results showed that e-supplier appraisal, electronic resource planning, and e-order processing had significant effects on supply management performance.

Internet of behaviors: conceptual model, practical and theoretical implications for supply chain and operations management

The Internet of Behaviours (IoB) is a network designed and used for replicating, understanding, predicting, and influencing human behaviour through data analytics. This study aims to advance our understanding of how the IoB will impact supply chain and operations management (SCOM). Based on a combination of the existing IoB frameworks with industrial Metaverse and digital supply chain twins, we propose a framework for IoB in SCOM encompassing management, organisation, and technology dimensions. We conclude that the IoB will impact a multitude of SCOM areas such as supply chain design, demand forecasting, sales and operations planning, distribution and transportation, inventory and production management, sourcing strategy and purchasing, vehicle routeing, supply chain resilience and sustainability. We offer a structured future research agenda pointing to new research questions and topics stemming from IoB-driven real-time visibility, data analytics, and remote control. Methodology of SCOM can also be enriched by the IoB through a combination of artificial intelligence and digital technology with operations research and behavioural operations management.

Impact of Digital Technologies on Enhancing Supplier Collaboration and Performance in Sweden

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the Impact of Digital Technologies on Enhancing Supplier Collaboration and Performance in Sweden. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study that impact of digital technologies on enhancing supplier collaboration and performance in Sweden has been transformative, driving significant improvements in efficiency, transparency, and strategic alignment. The adoption of digital tools such as cloud-based platforms, blockchain, and advanced data analytics has enabled Swedish businesses to foster stronger, more collaborative relationships with their suppliers. Digital technologies have streamlined communication and information sharing, allowing for real-time data exchange and more effective coordination across the supply chain. This enhanced transparency has reduced the risk of errors, improved order accuracy, and facilitated more agile and responsive supply chain operations. Consequently, businesses have been able to reduce lead times, optimize inventory levels, and enhance overall supply chain resilience. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource Dependence Theory, Transaction Cost Economics & Social Exchange Theory may be used to anchor future studies on Impact of Digital Technologies on Enhancing Supplier Collaboration and Performance in Sweden. Organizations should prioritize investment in robust digital platforms and tools that facilitate real-time communication, transparency, and data-driven decision-making across supply chains. This includes adopting cloud-based collaboration tools, implementing AI-driven analytics for predictive insights, and integrating IoT for enhanced visibility. Implementing structured SRM strategies that leverage digital technologies can improve supplier engagement, trust, and performance. This involves establishing clear communication channels, setting performance benchmarks based on data analytics, and fostering collaborative partnerships through shared platforms. Policymakers should collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop regulatory frameworks that support digital transformation in supply chains. Clear guidelines and standards can promote adoption while ensuring data security, interoperability, and ethical use of emerging technologies like blockchain and big data analytics.

How does the power structure affect the acquisition price and inventory decisions in the reverse supply chain

With growing concerns about environmental sustainability, reverse supply chains play a crucial role in recycling, remanufacturing, and reducing waste. Investigating the power structure’s impact on decisions related to acquisition prices and inventory management can provide insights into the integration of sustainable practices. This study analyzes a reverse supply chain with a supplier and a remanufacturer, in which the supplier provides the remanufacturer with sorted used cores. We investigate the acquisition pricing and inventory decisions under different power structures (supplierled Stackelberg model, remanufacturer-led Stackelberg model) through game theory analysis. We first establish the centralized model to explore optimal acquisition decisions and profit of the total system. Then we evaluate the acquisition quantity, wholesale prices, the profit of supplier and remanufacturer in the supplier-led model and in the remanufacturer-led model. Finally, the impact of power structure on the performance of supplier and remanufacturer are explored by numerical analysis, as well as the supply chain system. Our significant findings show that (i) the total profit of the supplier-led and remanufacturer-led reverse supply chain are less than the centralized model due to the double marginalization; (ii) the remanufacturer-led reverse supply chain is superior to the supplier-led model reverse supply chain; (iii) the selected grades in the supplier-led model is proved the same as that in the remanufacturer-led model, which could not been affected by the wholesale price; (iv) the greater the inventory risk (the uncertainty in demand), the greater the profit share for the remanufacturer (supplier) in the supplier-led (remanufacturer-led) model.

LQR controller design for portable power supply based on flyback converter

Abstract The stability of the power repair equipment guarantees the reliability of the repair of electrical equipment. The following problems exist in the power supply of the emergency equipment: the load equipment randomly cuts in the power supply network; load equipment requires fast dynamic performance of the power supply. This challenges the stability of the portable power supply with the Flyback converter as the core. In this paper, an optimal feedback control strategy based on linear quadratic regulator (LQR) theory is proposed to improve the dynamic and steady-state performance of the Flyback converter. First, the state-averaged space model of the Flyback is derived and established. Second, an output voltage feedback integral controller is introduced to eliminate the steady-state error of the output voltage. Next, according to the LQR optimal control theory, the control model of the Flyback converter has been established, and the parameter design of the controller has been carried out by obtaining the optimal feedback gain matrix of the system. Finally, the simulation models are implemented with an output power of 120 W and a switching frequency of 50 kHz. The simulation results prove that the LQR controller provides superior performance than the traditional PI controller.