Advancing sustainable supply chain management through digitalisation: Insights from the South African automotive industry

Abstract

Background: Automotive manufacturing organisations are major contributors to carbon emissions, creating social, environmental and economic challenges. Adopting holistic sustainability can provide a competitive advantage. In developing countries like South Africa, digitalisation remains in its early stages, and few studies have explored the role of Industry 4.0 technologies in supporting sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). Many firms continue to rely on traditional supply chain practices because of barriers such as limited infrastructure and skills shortages.
Objective: The purpose of this generic qualitative study is to explore the role of digitalisation in SSCM in the South African automotive industry.
Method: A generic qualitative approach was employed using semi-structured interviews with 12 senior managers from automotive organisations. Purposive sampling ensured participants had relevant experience in digitalisation and sustainability.
Results: The findings show that digitalisation significantly enhances SSCM by improving operational efficiency, increasing supply chain visibility, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainability optimisation. Participants acknowledged digital tools as enablers for more proactive and transparent supply chains although adoption is constrained by resource limitations and resistance to change by employees.
Conclusion: Digitalisation is a key driver for SSCM in the automotive sector, offering pathways to reduce emissions and improve supply chain performance. Overcoming adoption barriers through investment, training and policy support is essential to unlocking its full potential.
Contribution: This study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on digitalisation and SSCM in developing countries. It provides practical insights for managers and policymakers aiming to leverage digital tools to advance sustainability in automotive supply chains.