Investigating the mediating impact of supplier quality integration in pharmaceutical supply chains

Purpose The study aims to investigate the mediating impact of supplier quality integration on the operational performance of the pharmaceutical supply chain (PSCs) by comparing mature and evolving PSCs. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a quantitative method where data were gathered through a survey instrument to identify the differentiators of dynamic capabilities and establish the extent of quality integration in PSCs. Thus, 310 questionnaires were collected from mature and evolving PSCs, where the PROCESS technique was used to analyse the data. Findings The results demonstrate the significant paths that enable companies to create, extend and modify the resources to develop their dynamic capabilities. The results reveal significant differences in internal and supplier quality implementation and their impact on operational performance between mature and evolving PSCs. Originality/value To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine dynamic capabilities aspects of the pharmaceutical supply chain quality integration in mature and evolving PSCs, which extends the body of knowledge and makes a practical contribution.