Abstract
Supply chain management practices constituted critical determinants of operational efficiency in manufacturing enterprises, particularly in the competitive beverage industry where cost efficiency, timely delivery, and quality consistency determined market competitiveness. Uganda Sodas Ltd, a leading soft drink manufacturer, faced operational challenges requiring assessment of how supply chain practices influenced efficiency outcomes. This study employed a case study research design with a sample of 165 respondents comprising 41 supply chain managers and staff, 38 production supervisors and quality controllers, 71 distributors and retailers, and 15 senior management officials selected through stratified random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides, then analyzed using SPSS version 23. Findings revealed that 68.3% of respondents rated supply chain management practices as effective, with strong positive correlations between supplier relationship management (r = 0.742), inventory management (r = 0.718), information sharing (r = 0.693), and operational efficiency. Companies implementing integrated supply chain practices demonstrated 34.2% higher production efficiency, 41.7% faster order fulfillment, 28.6% lower operational costs, and 37.4% better product quality compared to baseline periods. Supply chain management practices significantly enhanced operational efficiency through improved coordination, reduced lead times, optimized inventory levels, and enhanced quality control mechanisms. The study recommended strengthening supplier partnerships, implementing real-time information systems, adopting just-in-time inventory practices, investing in supply chain technology, and developing performance measurement frameworks to enhance operational efficiency.
Keywords
Supply chain management, operational efficiency, supplier relationships, inventory management, Uganda Sodas Ltd