Integration, readiness, flexibility and demand uncertainty in the post-COVID-19 period: perspectives from a Brazilian supply chain

Purpose Research on supply chains remains necessary, especially in times of uncertainty and instability. However, there is a limited number of publications conducted in emerging countries. This paper aims to investigate the moderating effect of demand uncertainty on integration, readiness and flexibility on the responsiveness of a supply chain in the manufacturing sector of machinery and equipment for transport and lifting loads. Design/methodology/approach The authors used hierarchical regression, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to evaluate a sample of 213 supply chain managers. Findings The negative effect of demand uncertainty on all three dimensions strengthens supply chains in the postcrisis period. Demand uncertainty moderates integration, readiness and flexibility over responsiveness. Supply chains should use adaptive strategies, mitigate demand uncertainty and conduct resilient processes in postcrisis periods. Research limitations/implications The study offers insights for managers affected in postcrisis periods, such as the pandemic. This study investigates a sample of supply chain managers. Practical implications The results contribute to effective decision-making by managers, aiming at linking integration, readiness, flexibility and responsiveness in supply chains with demand uncertainty, especially in postcrisis periods. Originality/value Despite the adversities, the supply chain overcame demand uncertainty and maintained its operations through integration, readiness, flexibility and responsiveness strategies. The model is unprecedented and was applied to a supply chain undergoing consolidation.