Abstract:
BACKGROUND : The supply chain risk management (SCRM) process is aimed at the
implementation of strategies that assist in managing both daily and exceptional risks facing
the supply chain through continuous risk assessment to reduce vulnerability and ensure
continuity.
PURPOSE : The purpose of the study was to determine whether the SCRM process enables
supply chain resilience among grocery manufacturers in South Africa. The fast-moving
consumer goods (FMCG)-manufacturing industry faces increased risk because of the nature of
their products being perishable with a limited shelf life.
METHOD : This study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative research design. Data were
collected by means of 12 semi-structured interviews with senior supply chain practitioners
within the South African grocery manufacturing industry.
FINDINGS : The study found that most firms informally implement SCRM processes of risk
identification, assessment, mitigation and monitoring to mitigate disruptions. Furthermore,
the findings indicate that the SCRM processes facilitate resilience among grocery manufacturers
in South Africa.
CONCLUSION : The managerial implications show that supply chain managers of grocery
manufacturers should formalise the SCRM process and develop risk assessment scales to
better prioritise risks in order to run a resilient supply chain. The research contributes to the
supply chain management field by adding to the scarce literature relating to SCRM as an
enabler of supply chain resilience in a South African context.
