Risk management in supply chain information flow: a study of selected food processing companies in South Africa

Abstract
As the Food Processing Industry continues to expand and becomes increasingly complex, by the same token, a number of problems encountered arise (Nguegan & Mafini, 2017). Such problems include, but are not limited to, more dynamic, differentiated and complex consumer demand, distorted supply chain information flow, the need for effective practices and the need to meet the dynamic market requirements (Grunert, 2003; Singhal, et al, 2011). All of these problems pose risks to the business performance and the supply chain management effectiveness, resulting in rising costs and declining competitiveness. Given that information is considered important tool for decision making and keeps all supply chain components updated, it was crucial to study information flow risk factors and the mitigation strategies employed by Food Processing Companies to better comprehend developments within the industry (Nguegan & Mafini, 2017). Through following the qualitative research approach, it was established that effective risk management lies in the ability of the senior leaders and management to make good decisions. It is apparent that policies and procedures are almost invariably not enough, and, in consequence, the onus is on senior leaders and management to take policies and procedures a step further by implementing a holistic risk management program which can surge business chances of success and lessen the possibility of failure (Frigo & Anderson, 2011; Singh & Singh, 2019; Sunjka & Emwanu, 2013).
Description
A research dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Industrial Engineering to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023
Keywords
Food processing, Supply chain, Risk management
Citation
Collections