Managing Supply Chain Risks: A Perspective of Exportable Pineapple Fresh Fruits in Ghana

Abstract

Businesses operate in environments that are full of dynamism and uncertainties. These uncertainties constitute risks in the business operations. In the context of pineapple production, risk is inevitably, an integral part of the supply chain and comes in various forms. The principle of risks management recognizes the fact that risks are potential source of threat that undermines corporate strategy. Therefore, the need for systematic and proactive measures to deal with risk is paramount and should not be left to chance. This study assesses the overall supply chain network of selected organisations, identifies the risks inherent along its supply chain, analyses the risks and categorises them  according to their level of impact on the company’s operations   and develops mitigation strategies to dealing with them. Primary data was used for the study through questionnaire instrument. Pareto analytical model with Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) framework was adopted in analyzing the data. The results revealed that lack of good planting materials, timely availability of skilled labours, electricity fluctuation, ineffective pre-cooling and cold chain facilities were the major risks facing most pineapple supply chain in Ghana. The need to develop in-vitro planting facilities, staff development and continuous improvement program through modernization and re-tooling is recommended.

Keywords: Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Risk, Pineapple Supply Chain, Exportable, Fresh Fruits