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Post-Pandemic Resilience of Retort-Based SMEs: A Literature-Based Analysis of Business Model Adaptation

Author

Listed:
  • Shafiee Md Tarmudi

    (Faculty of Business and Management, University Technology Mara (UiTM), Cawangan Johor, Kampus Segamat, 85000 Segamat, Johor, Malaysia.)

  • Ros Hasri Ahmad

    (Faculty of Business and Management, University Technology Mara (UiTM), Cawangan Johor, Kampus Segamat, 85000 Segamat, Johor, Malaysia.)

  • Muhamad Ismail Pahmi

    (Faculty of Business and Management, University Technology Mara (UiTM), Cawangan Johor, Kampus Segamat, 85000 Segamat, Johor, Malaysia.)

  • Rahmawati Mohd Yusoff

    (Faculty of Business and Management, University Technology Mara (UiTM), Cawangan Johor, Kampus Segamat, 85000 Segamat, Johor, Malaysia.)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities across small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly in the food processing sector. Disruptions in supply chains, labour shortages, and shifting consumer demands threatened operational continuity. Retort-based SMEs, specialising in shelf-stable food production, hold a unique position in post-pandemic resilience due to their role in food security and consumer convenience. This article analyses how business models in retort-based SMEs adapted to challenges and opportunities post-pandemic. By synthesising existing research on business model resilience, food SMEs, and crisis adaptation, the study identifies five major themes: supply chain reconfiguration, digitalisation, product innovation, sustainability practices, and workforce adaptation. Findings suggest resilient SMEs demonstrate adaptive capabilities through diversification of distribution channels, integration of e-commerce, agile production strategies, and adoption of green practices. A conceptual framework is proposed, linking business model adaptation with long-term resilience strategies in retort SMEs. The study highlights research gaps and the need for sector-specific frameworks to guide SMEs toward sustainable growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Shafiee Md Tarmudi & Ros Hasri Ahmad & Muhamad Ismail Pahmi & Rahmawati Mohd Yusoff, 2025. "Post-Pandemic Resilience of Retort-Based SMEs: A Literature-Based Analysis of Business Model Adaptation," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(9), pages 255-261, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-9:p:255-261
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mahak Sharma & Rose Antony & Konstantinos Tsagarakis, 2025. "Green, resilient, agile, and sustainable fresh food supply chain enablers: evidence from India," Annals of Operations Research, Springer, vol. 347(1), pages 13-39, April.
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    3. Jill Juergensen & José Guimón & Rajneesh Narula, 2020. "European SMEs amidst the COVID-19 crisis: assessing impact and policy responses," Economia e Politica Industriale: Journal of Industrial and Business Economics, Springer;Associazione Amici di Economia e Politica Industriale, vol. 47(3), pages 499-510, September.
    4. Chinmaya Kumar Sahu & Rajeev Kumar Panda, 2024. "Evaluating the relationship between entrepreneurial ecosystem, resilience and SME performance in post-pandemic period," Journal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 13(3), pages 491-506, May.
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