Strategic sourcing on the performance of selected food manufacturing firms in Kiambu County, Kenya

Joseph Kariuki Kamau; Phelista Njeru

doi:10.51867/ajernet.6.3.7

Authors

Joseph Kariuki Kamau Mount Kenya University, Kenya
Phelista Njeru Mount Kenya University, Kenya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.6.3.7

Keywords:

Food Manufacturing, Kiambu County, Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Focus

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to assess the effect of strategic sourcing on the performance of selected food manufacturing firms in Kiambu County, Kenya. It focused on finding out how firm performance is related to supplier collaboration, networking, assessing suppliers and deciding which suppliers to select. Strategic Choice Theory was used as a guide, pointing out that managerial decisions help determine how an organization performs. The study relied on descriptive research design. The sample group included 191 employees from 29 chosen food manufacturing businesses and 20 distribution outlets in Kiambu County. A census approach was needed because the study involved only a relatively small number of participants. The main data were gathered by giving participants structured questionnaires. The information was put into SPSS version 25 to be processed and analyzed. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were all used to explain and summarize the collected data. The findings reveal that strategic sourcing practices are widely adopted, as indicated by the overall mean of 4.02 and standard deviation of 0.79, suggesting strong agreement among respondents and a positive impact on firm performance. Because of these practices, the results of the firms improved greatly. According to findings, following a deliberate sourcing strategy, set by managers, helped to make food manufacturing in Kiambu County more efficient and competitive. It claims that businesses should address better buying habits, improve communication, work on supplier management and be more precise in judging their suppliers. It is suggested that studies in the future examine the use of technology and obeying regulations, so we can learn even more about how these things affect company performance.

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