Effect of lean manufacturing practices on manufacturing firms’ sustainability performance

Abstract

Purpose – This study examines the effect of lean manufacturing practices (LMPs), namely total productive maintenance (TPM) and continuous improvement (CI), on the environmental, social and economic sustainability performance of manufacturing firms. Design/methodology/approach – A cross-sectional method was employed in the current study. A total of 236 responses were collected to validate the developed conceptual framework. The proposed relationships were confirmed through the application of partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4.0.9.5 software. Findings – The study illustrates that LMPs, notably TPM and CI, positively affect economic, environmental and social sustainability performance (SOCSP). The findings emphasize the necessity of implementing LMPs as crucial resources for improving the performance of manufacturing firms. Originality/value – This study is one of the few that examines the effect of LMPs on the economic, environmental and SOCSP of manufacturing firms in Tanzania, as the literature is largely based in developed nations. The results demonstrate that proper use of LMPs improves firms’ sustainability performance. The findings offer managers and policymakers valuable insights into effectively using lean practices to enhance the sustainability performance of manufacturing firms in developing countries.