STRATEGIC SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT AS A DRIVER OF SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

Abstract

In an increasingly competitive and uncertain business environment, organizations are required to move beyond traditional, cost-focused supply chain practices to achieve long-term success. This study examines the role of strategic supply chain management (SSCM) as a key driver of sustainable competitive advantage. Drawing on the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities perspective, the study investigates how strategically aligned, integrated, and sustainability-oriented supply chain practices contribute to long-term organizational competitiveness. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a cross-sectional survey design, with data collected from supply chain and operations managers across manufacturing and service organizations. The data were analyzed using reliability analysis, descriptive statistics, and regression analysis to test the proposed relationships. The findings reveal that strategic supply chain management has a significant and positive effect on sustainable competitive advantage, while supply chain integration further strengthens this relationship. The results suggest that organizations that embed sustainability, collaboration, and strategic alignment into their supply chain practices are better positioned to enhance performance, resilience, and differentiation. This study contributes to the growing literature on strategic and sustainable supply chain management by providing empirical evidence of its competitive value. Practical implications are offered for managers and policymakers seeking to leverage supply chains as strategic assets for sustainable competitive advantage.