Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess, the contribution of supply chain management on the development of competitive advantages in the food processing retail companies in Yaoundé –Cameroon.

The specific objectives were to determine the contribution of strategic suppliers partnership on the firms competitive advantage, to establish the gift of customer relationship on the firms competitive advantage and finally to examine h contribution of information sharing on the firms competitive position.

The sample size for the study included 50 food processing companies in Yaoundé, and each questionnaire was delivered to each company to prevent a mix-up response within the same firm. 42 questionnaires were received, which represented a response of 84 percent (84%), but the study had used only completed questionnaires, which reduced the sample size to comprise only 33 companies for data analysis.

This study used primary and secondary data that was collected from food processing Companies. A regression analysis was carried out based on the data that was provided by the food processing companies.

We also have analysis done by means of frequency tables, this kind of analysis was mainly for demographic information  The findings of this study indicated that information sharing has a contribution to the development of competitive advantage.

Also it indicated that that customer relationship has a contribution to the development of competitive advantage.

Finally, we found strategic supplier partnerships have a contribution to the development of competitive advantage. We recommended that management develop policies and procedures that govern management and enhancement of supply chain integration.

There is a need for the management to develop laid out policies and procedures for handling customers’ concerns in a bit to build permanent long-term relationships with customers. The study recommends companies develop interactive websites to achieve effective information sharing and interests can be monitor and keep in touch with customers.

There is a need for management to put more emphasis on interaction with competitors, especially in areas of production Trust is an integral part within the supply chain that companies should strive to build.