Behavioural or outside influences? A triple bottom line review of supply chain performance measurement in SMEs within a developing economy
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The topic of sustainability in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is multifaceted, involving both economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Top managers play a crucial role in driving sustainability initiatives within these organizations. The study explores how managerial attitude, and institutional Isomorphic pressures in SMEs affect financial, environmental or social considerations in sustainable supply chain performance measures. This study adopts a quantitative approach using structural equation modelling (SEM) as an analytical tool. The study adopted a quantitative approach to elicit feedback from 211 manufacturing SMEs. The findings indicate that managerial attitudes are generally aligned with sustainable supply chain performance measures (SSCPM). However, there is a marked aversion to regulatory frameworks mandating sustainability. Mimetic and normative pressures positively affect the attitude of managers on environmental and economic SSCPM. While normative pressures have a positive effect on social SSCPM, mimetic pressures offer contrasting effect on social SSCPM. The study calls for a further development of institutional theory application for resource constraints environment. The universal approach does not suit the endemic institutional voids in resource constraints context. Policy makers and regulators need a more collaborative approach beyond enforcement to engage and encourage environmental and social sustainability development in SMEs.
Authors: Mamorena Lucia Matsoso, Mikael Samuelsson
Institutions: University of Johannesburg, University of Cape Town
Language: English
Subfield: Strategy and Management
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,830
OpenAlex ID: W7135238314