Exploring the necessity of TQM practices for enhancing sustainability performance of manufacturing firms

Purpose Total quality management (TQM) has traditionally been viewed as an enabler of operational excellence, yet its role as an indispensable driver of sustainability performance (SP) remains underexplored. Drawing on the natural resource-based view (NRBV) and dynamic capabilities theories, we investigate whether TQM practices constitute necessary rather than merely helpful conditions for driving SP among SMEs in the manufacturing sector. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative data were collected from 200 owner-managers of manufacturing firms in Ghana. Using Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA), this study identifies which TQM practices are “must-have” conditions for achieving sustainability performance. Findings The NCA results revealed that supplier quality management (SQM) is the most critical TQM dimension and is a significant bottleneck for achieving sustainability performance. Proactive risk management (PRM), management leadership (MGL) and data transparency (DTS) also emerged as necessary conditions. Although product design (PRD), quality circles (QCS) and cross-functional team development (CTD) show medium-necessity effects, they remain essential supporting conditions. The findings emphasise that all seven TQM dimensions must reach minimum threshold levels to enable high levels of sustainability performance. Practical implications TQM dimensions provide a bundle of complementary capabilities that support the development of a sustainability strategy. These capabilities enable SMEs in the manufacturing sector to establish resilient value chains aligned with global sustainability goals. Among these capabilities, firms should prioritise supplier quality management and proactive risk management, as both dimensions consistently support sustainability goals across environmental, social and economic domains. Data transparency is foundational but requires integration with other dimensions for sufficiency. From the NRBV perspective, TQM should be viewed as a strategic capability that enables manufacturing firms to achieve sustainability through resource-efficient and green manufacturing practices. Manufacturing firms are encouraged to integrate environmental thinking into product design, adopt zero-waste innovations, and build strong partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers. Originality/value The study extends the sustainability and quality management literature by demonstrating that TQM practices are not only contributors but also critical prerequisites for SP. It offers operational directions and recommendations for manufacturing firms, particularly in emerging economies, on prioritising and committing to quality initiatives essential for sustainable competitiveness. Ultimately, sustainability in manufacturing firms cannot be achieved through isolated practices but requires a consistent and stepwise application of these practices in the appropriate order and proportions.