Integrating Supply Chain Partners through Implementing Industry 4.0 Technologies to Enhance Competitiveness

Abstract

Manufacturing companies must embrace state-of-the-art technologies to keep up with the rapid advancements in technology and innovation. This study examines how integrating supply chain partners in implementing technologies like I4.0 can improve Competitiveness. The research employed a survey-based approach, utilizing a well-constructed semi-structured questionnaire. One hundred and twenty-five responses were obtained from Bangladesh’s Readymade Garments Sector. Based on previous literature and the responses from the respondents, a conceptual model was formulated, which generated six hypotheses. The model and the hypotheses are tested and validated through Structural Equation Modeling. Smart PLS 4.0 was employed for data analysis. The study’s findings support all the proposed hypotheses, confirming the validity of the developed model. The effective and efficient implementation of cutting-edge technologies through linking with the supply network partners would build Competitiveness.