The influence of supply chain management systems on agricultural businesses in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province

Abstract

Documented studies show that supply chain management systems (SCMS) that are in place in the province of Limpopo, focused more on agricultural business. Against this background, this study seeks to explore the influence of SCMS on agricultural businesses in the Vhembe District of Limpopo. The aim of this study is to identify existing SCMS used by agricultural businesses in Vhembe District, identify factors affecting agricultural businesses in Vhembe District, and establish policies supporting agricultural businesses, as well as examine frameworks used to monitor and evaluate agricultural profit. Supply chain management systems optimise the flow of goods, services, and information across the entire supply chain. By automating processes, streamlining operations, and reducing manual errors, these systems enhance overall efficiency. However, supply chain systems have a direct impact on customer satisfaction. Timely and accurate delivery, product availability, and responsive customer service are all influenced by the effectiveness of the supply chain. However, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the impact and potential benefits of supply chain management systems specifically tailored for agricultural businesses in Vhembe District. The study takes a qualitative research approach, coupled with an ex-ploratory research design. The research study makes use of face-to-face, in-depth interviews. An interview guide with open-ended questions was used during the interviews. The study used the interpretivist research paradigm to achieve the study objectives. Primary data was utilised to gather information regarding agricultural business practices in the Vhembe District. The collected data was analysed using ATLAS.ti. The findings of this study showed that proper packaging is also being adopted as a marketing strategy by these businesses, which effectively positions their products in the market and improves their competitive edge. A Vhembe District agri-supply chain systems model and direction for future research was made, while conclusions of the study were drawn. The study contributes towards developing effective SCMS in the agricultural sector, that has accommodated all farmers in the Vhembe District. The researcher used a small but adequate sample to pursue the objectives of the study. The implications of this study are far greater, as they extend to farmers, investors, the municipality, researchers and the public as a whole.