The effects of strategic sourcing on supply chain strategies

Purpose This study aims to examine the effects of strategic sourcing (SS) on lean supply chain (LSC) and agile supply chain (ASC) strategies and investigate the role of these concepts on development of competitive performance. Design/methodology/approach A proposed research model and hypotheses are tested by using cross-sectional e-mail survey data collected from the manufacturing firms operating in Turkey. SS is conceptualized as a second-order factor. Structural equation modeling is used to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings This study reached the conclusion that SS affects LSC and ASC strategies positively. Additionally, it is seen that these concepts are effective in improvement of competitive performance. Practical implications The results are important in terms of emphasizing the significance of SS in improvement of the lean and agile nature of the supply chain. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence regarding the relationships among SS, supply chain strategies and competitive performance. Research limitations/implications This study was carried out on the plant level where one person from each organization responded to the survey.