Abstract
Supply chain practices have become increasingly important in enhancing organizational efficiency, competitiveness, and overall performance in the manufacturing sector. Despite their recognized importance, many manufacturing firms continue to experience operational challenges associated with planning and delivery processes. This study sought to establish the relationship between supply chain practices and the performance of large manufacturing firms in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Specifically, the study examined the effect of planning practices and delivery practices on the performance of large manufacturing firms. The study adopted a descriptive research design utilizing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The target population comprised 163 managers drawn from large manufacturing firms in Nairobi City County, including procurement, finance, production, and administration managers. A census survey was employed, and data were collected using structured and semi-structured questionnaires. A pilot study involving 16 respondents was conducted to ascertain the reliability and validity of the research instrument. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 29 through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that planning practices and delivery practices had a positive and statistically significant influence on the performance of large manufacturing firms. Planning practices exhibited the strongest relationship with firm performance, while delivery practices also contributed significantly to performance improvement. The regression results indicated that the two variables jointly explained 64.9% of the variation in organizational performance. The study concluded that effective planning practices, including demand forecasting, inventory management, periodic reviews, and expenditure analysis, as well as efficient delivery practices such as transportation management and clear distribution routes, are critical drivers of organizational performance. The study recommends that large manufacturing firms strengthen planning and delivery practices by enhancing demand forecasting systems, inventory control mechanisms, transportation management, and distribution networks to improve operational efficiency and overall organizational performance.
Keywords: Supply Chain Practices, Planning Practices, Delivery Practices, Organizational Performance, Manufacturing Firms, Nairobi City County, Kenya.