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Evaluating Six Sigma methodology to improve logistical measures of food distribution SMEs

Alireza Shokri (Newcastle Business School, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK)
David Oglethorpe (School of Management, Sheffield University, Sheffield, UK)
Farhad Nabhani (School of Science and Engineering, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK)

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management

ISSN: 1741-038X

Article publication date: 26 August 2014

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the implementation of the Six Sigma methodology as a systematic business strategy and quality initiative to improve the critical logistical measures within small-to-medium-sized food distributors.

Design/methodology/approach

The first stage was the conducting of structured questionnaires to verify the applicability in terms of capability, resources and culture in the targeted industry. The second stage was the implementation of two industrial case studies to investigate the impacts of Six Sigma on logistical measures.

Findings

It was found that Six Sigma is applicable and beneficial in small-to-medium-sized food distributors. It was also found that required training, personal characteristics of managers, size of the organisation, education level and workplace of the employees are the most effective elements to adopt Six Sigma for these organisations.

Research limitations/implications

Cultural factors including high level of secrecy in information exchange, ambiguity and lack of knowledge, sampling population and requirement of ISO9000 were found as key issues in implications of this research programme.

Practical implications

Six Sigma programme can be used as a problem solving practice, a performance measurement tool and a business strategy in small food distributors through more simplified approach to improve the ultimate food supply chain.

Originality/value

This research paper studies the application of Six Sigma in food logistics SME sector by having integrated research approach, and also provides a practical scientific and rigorous quality and profitability improvement methodology for smaller food distribution organisations with limited resources.

Keywords

Citation

Shokri, A., Oglethorpe, D. and Nabhani, F. (2014), "Evaluating Six Sigma methodology to improve logistical measures of food distribution SMEs", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 25 No. 7, pp. 998-1027. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-12-2012-0114

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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