The influence of supplier selection on the operational performance of the hospitality industry in Zimbabwe

Abstract Effective supplier selection plays a pivotal role in the success of any procurement activity in an organisation. It forms the foundation for the overall quality of the project which translate to improved profit, market share and customer retention. However, market turbulence in Zimbabwe disrupts supplier commitments which tend to undermine the operational performance of hospitality firms. Thus, the study’s aim was to examine the influence of supplier selection on the operational performance of the firms in the hospitality industry in Zimbabwe. Data were gathered using questionnaires and semi structured interviews. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic data analysis approach. Quantitative data were collected by questionnaires and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The study established that hotels under study used single sourcing, dual sourcing, parallel sourcing, multiple sourcing and local sourcing. Local sourcing was preferred owing to logistical simplicity, avoidance of import costs, and supporting local vendors. The study found a significant relationship between sourcing practices and operational performance of the hospitality industry in Zimbabwe. Competitive bidding had positive impact on performance, and strategic supplier partnerships had also a strong influence in operational performance. The study recommends strategic partnerships, and development of local suppliers to enhance operational performance.