Effect of production process capabilities on supply chain performance of sugar manufacturing firms in western region, Kenya

Supply chain performance refers to the ability of an extended supply chain to meet end-customer demands through responsive inventory and capacity management, timely delivery, and product availability. This study examined the effect of production process capabilities on supply chain performance. The study was anchored on the Dynamic Capabilities Theory. A descriptive survey research design was employed, targeting four sugar manufacturing firms with a total population of 281 respondents. A sample size of 165 was selected from a population of 281 using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. A pilot study conducted at Kibos Sugar Company in Kisumu County tested the reliability and validity of the research instruments. Reliability was confirmed with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.7 and above, while validity was ensured through expert reviews. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and SDs) and inferential statistics, including linear, multiple, and hierarchical regression analysis. The findings revealed that production process capabilities (r = 0.525, R² = 0.276, p = 0.000) had a significant positive effect on supply chain performance. It is evident that production process capabilities had a significant positive influence on the supply chain performance of sugar manufacturing companies since they have a significant impact on the outcomes attained. These results implied that supply chain performance was higher for sugar manufacturing companies with more robust production process capabilities. The study recommends that sugar manufacturing firms streamline production cycles.