Impact of JIT, TQM and circular economy practices on sustainable performance

Purpose This research paper aims to investigate whether just-in-time (JIT) and total quality management (TQM) are important antecedents to circular economy adoption. Underpinned by the natural resource-based view, which argues that the organisation’s competitive advantage is determined by its relationship with the environment, this study further investigates how JIT, TQM and the circular economy impact sustainable performance. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was used using a correlational design, as it can analyse relationships among variables. In Zimbabwe, 782 questionnaires were distributed to manufacturing companies, and 302 valid responses were obtained. SPSS v 27 and SmartPLS 4 were used to analyse the data. Findings Both JIT and TQM have a direct impact on circular economy practices. Additionally, JIT, TQM and circular economy practices directly influence sustainable performance. The importance-performance map analysis indicates that JIT is the most important practice; therefore, it needs to be prioritised. Research limitations/implications The research used data from a developing country and is delimited to the manufacturing industry, as practices adopted in this industry may differ from other industries. Hence, further study is required before adoption by other industries and countries, especially developed ones. Originality/value Most studies examined how lean impacts sustainable performance. This study investigates how foundational JIT and TQM are to the adoption of circular economy practices. The study examined the relative importance of these antecedents and found that the proper implementation of JIT is crucial for organisational success.