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A Sustainable Approach to Boost Resilience in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods: The Critical Role of Suppliers and Transportation Capacity Explored Through PLS-SEM and NCA

Author

Listed:
  • Muhammad Ali Aslam

    (School of Economics and Management, Chang’an University, Xi’an 710064, China)

  • Zhaolei Li

    (School of Economics and Management, Chang’an University, Xi’an 710064, China)

Abstract

Supply chain resilience (SRES) is essential for firms aiming to alleviate the impact of interruptions and maintain operational continuity and sustainability in performance. In the context of the FMCG industries of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, characterized by intricate and vulnerable supply chains, there exists an urgent necessity for solutions that bolster resilience. This study examines the influence of critical factors resilient suppliers (RS), transportation capacity (TC), flexibility (FLEX), network complexity (NC), and supply chain dynamism (SPD) on SRES. A quantitative methodology was utilized, examining survey data from 611 participants with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA). The results indicate that RS and TC are essential for directly improving SRES, whereas FLEX and SPD facilitate increased adaptability and reactivity. The NCA emphasizes the need to control NC to avert bottlenecks that may impede resilience. This study indicates that SRES emerges from the dynamic interplay of several elements, rather than from separate enhancements. Although NC exerts a negligible direct influence, adeptly managing complexity is crucial for reducing disruptions and inefficiencies. The results underscore that fortifying RS, TC, and FLEX in unison improves resilience and adaptation to market volatility and disturbances. This study provides various theoretical and managerial insights. A systems theory approach highlights the interdependence of supply chain components, whereas the Theory of Constraints (TOC) posits that excessive NC can hinder resilience. Management should concentrate on maximizing RS and TC until declining returns are evident, thereafter redirecting efforts towards improving FLEX and minimizing NC. Furthermore, optimizing processes and facilitating swift decision-making are essential for maintaining resilience.

Suggested Citation

  • Muhammad Ali Aslam & Zhaolei Li, 2025. "A Sustainable Approach to Boost Resilience in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods: The Critical Role of Suppliers and Transportation Capacity Explored Through PLS-SEM and NCA," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(6), pages 1-29, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:6:p:2625-:d:1613639
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Xinqiu Zhu & Yenchun Jim Wu, 2022. "How Does Supply Chain Resilience Affect Supply Chain Performance? The Mediating Effect of Sustainability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(21), pages 1-19, November.
    2. Ruiz-Benítez, Rocío & López, Cristina & Real, Juan C., 2018. "The lean and resilient management of the supply chain and its impact on performance," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 203(C), pages 190-202.
    3. Marko Sarstedt & Christian M. Ringle & Joseph F. Hair, 2022. "Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling," Springer Books, in: Christian Homburg & Martin Klarmann & Arnd Vomberg (ed.), Handbook of Market Research, pages 587-632, Springer.
    4. Wilson, Martha C., 2007. "The impact of transportation disruptions on supply chain performance," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 43(4), pages 295-320, July.
    5. Wissuwa, Florian & Durach, Christian F. & Choi, Thomas Y., 2022. "Selecting resilient suppliers: Supplier complexity and buyer disruption," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 253(C).
    6. Ahmad Ali Atieh Ali & Abdel-Aziz Ahmad Sharabati & Mahmoud Allahham & Ahmad Yacoub Nasereddin, 2024. "The Relationship between Supply Chain Resilience and Digital Supply Chain and the Impact on Sustainability: Supply Chain Dynamism as a Moderator," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-20, April.
    7. Md Shihab Shakur & Maishat Lubaba & Binoy Debnath & A. B. M. Mainul Bari & M. Azizur Rahman, 2024. "Exploring the Challenges of Industry 4.0 Adoption in the FMCG Sector: Implications for Resilient Supply Chain in Emerging Economy," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 8(1), pages 1-28, March.
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    Cited by:

    1. Muhammad Ali Aslam & Zhaolei Li & Mohammad Jaradat & Malik Shahzad Shabbir & Raul Adrain Lile & Hassan Nazir, 2026. "Revealing FMCG Success in Pakistan: The Nexus of Supply Chain Practices and Competitive Advantage," Global Business Review, International Management Institute, vol. 27(1), pages 9-36, February.

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