Resilient Supply Chain Capabilities and SMEs Performance in South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operate in supply environments characterised by uncertainty, resource constraints and recurring disruptions. In such environments, the capacity to adapt operations, manage supply chain risks and deploy technology strategically may determine whether firms maintain performance or experience prolonged operational difficulties. This study examined the effects of supply chain flexibility, supply chain risk management and supply chain technology adoption on the performance of SMEs in South-East Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative survey design and analysed data obtained from 325 valid SME responses. Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the measurement and structural models. The findings show that supply chain flexibility has a significant positive effect on SME performance (β = 0.30, p < 0.001). Supply chain risk management emerged as the strongest predictor of performance, with a significant positive effect (β = 0.37, p < 0.001). However, supply chain technology adoption did not have a significant direct effect on SME performance (β = –0.05, p = 0.52). The findings suggest that adaptive and risk-oriented capabilities have more immediate performance implications for SMEs than technology adoption considered in isolation. The study argues that technology should be integrated with organisational capabilities and supply chain processes rather than treated as an automatic route to improved performance. The article contributes to supply chain resilience research by examining the combined effects of operational adaptability, risk management and technology adoption within the SME context of South-East Nigeria. Practical implications are provided for SME managers, policymakers and supply chain practitioners.