Applying a Sustainable Business Model for Companies Creating Manufacturing Shared Value with Base of the Pyramid Suppliers

Background: Empowerment of Base of the Pyramid (BoP) suppliers presents an opportunity for companies seeking to create manufacturing shared value in BoP communities they operate in. The BoP represents a socio-economic segment composed of low-income earners with potential opportunities for growth. Creating Manufacturing Shared Value (MSV) offers a sustainable business model opportunity to capacitate BoP suppliers operating micro-manufacturing factories in the BoP communities. Methods: An in-depth single case study of Zimplats company explores how manufacturing shared value can be successfully created with BoP suppliers operating in BoP communities. The data from this case study is coded and analysed using a qualitative data analysis software Atlas.ti. Results: The case study demonstrates how companies can create manufacturing shared value in BoP communities. This contributes a roadmap which can be followed by management in companies operating in BoP communities to create manufacturing shared value for all stakeholders.