The role of social capital and entrepreneurial orientation in augmenting the firm’s risk-based competitive performance: evidence from the shipping industry

Purpose The purpose of this research is to explore the intricate relationship between firms’ social capital (SC) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in the shipping industry, specifically focusing on their impact on strategic entrepreneurship (SE) and sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). The primary objective is to investigate how these elements contribute to effective risk management, ultimately enhancing a firm’s competitiveness and overall performance. Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered through a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 105 supply chain managers in the shipping industry in Pakistan. The study utilizes structural equation modeling to rigorously test the formulated hypotheses. Findings The results of the study reveal that both EO and SC exert a positive and significant influence on SE and SSCM. Additionally, SE is found to be positively associated with robustness capability (RC), competitive advantage (CA) and overall firm performance (FP). However, SSCM, while positively correlated with RC, does not directly impact CA and FP. Originality/value Recent events like the pandemic and various force majeure have created a lot of strategic concerns in the logistics sector. This study delves into SSCM within the context of developing countries, providing a comprehensive understanding. The investigation of the relationships between SC, EO, SSCM and FP is novel, presenting a unique contribution to existing literature. The study also establishes a foundation for further research in a similar vein within the shipping industry.