Collaborative practices within supply chain management activities among small and medium enterprises (SMEs): a case study of South Africa

As global business environments get more challenging, supply chain management (SCM) has embraced cooperation to increase effectiveness, cut costs, and improve customer experiences. The study assesses the current practice and status of collaboration, evaluates the factors that influence collaborative practices among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study applied a qualitative research method through the interpretivism paradigm and employed semi-structured interviews to acquire substantive data from the SMEs operating in the local environment. Results were concluded as they were examined through thematic analysis. It is evident that collaboration enhances supply chain performance and fosters innovation, trust, and operational efficiency. Key drivers include market development, competitive edge, better product quality, and innovation. The study adds value to the extant SCM literature by providing useful suggestions to enhance inter-SME partnerships that may enhance sustainable supply chain practices. The findings accruing from the research studies are beneficial to business managers, who wish to enhance SCM effectiveness and competitive advantage in similar geographical environments.