An analysis of how supply chain management can help produce sales revenue for fast moving consumer goods firms in Zambia : a case study of Yalelo limited and Java foods.

Th Fast moving consumer good industry is one of the most vital industries in the Zambian economy, this industry is one of the main sources of employment for thousands of Zambians working in manufacturing, distribution, retail, and marketing, among other areas of the supply chain. This industry is fast paced and due to the short shelf life, high demand, and poor profit margins of FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) products, efficient supply chain management is critical in this industry’s survival. This study’s aim was to analyse how supply chain management can help produce sales revenue for FMCG firms in Zambia. The research data was obtained by means of a quantitative paradigm aided by a structured questionnaire that was
administered through structured interviews. The questionnaire contained questions regarding, whether Supply chain management contributes to speed to market, overall organization performance and an organization’s competitive advantage. A total of 275 members of the target population participated in the research. The selected respondents were either employees of Yalelo Limited, Java Food or any of their supply chain partners. Prior to administering the questionnaire, it underwent a pilot study to ensure validity and reliability. The research findings revealed that supply chain management contributes to speed to market, and it also creates competitive advantage for the FMCG firms under study. However, the collected data revealed that overall organizational performance does not depend on SCM, but the hypothesis test that was conducted using a Z-test on the collected data indicated that organizational performance does depend on supply chain management. Hence, the null hypothesis was rejected. In conclusion, the researcher concluded that supply chain management is vital to the FMCG firm’s quest for revenue generation. Finally, in line with the research questions, the researcher concluded by recommending industry wide awareness on the importance of SCM, employee training, and that policy makers
should ensure to take into account the importance of this industry when formulating policies that affects it. Lastly a recommendation to future researchers on the topic was also made.