The influence of logistics integration on information sharing and business performance: The case of small and medium enterprises in South Africa

Abstract

Logistics integration across partnering firms has become the backbone of supply chain management as it facilitates information sharing, which is required in order to enhance business performance. This study investigated the mediatory role of information sharing on the relationships between logistics integration and business performance within the small and medium enterprise (SME) context. Five research hypotheses were postulated and the hypotheses were empirically tested using sample data from the SME sector in South Africa’s Gauteng Province. The results indicated that logistics integration positively influences information sharing and business performance in a significant way within the context of South African SMEs. Managerial implications of the findings are discussed, whilst limitations and future research directions are indicated.