Effect of Just-in-Time Inventory Management on Sugar Companies' Operational Performance in Kenya

This study examined the effect of Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory management on the operational performance of sugar manufacturing firms in Kenya. Data were collected from staff in procurement, planning, stores, and warehousing departments, with 148 valid responses analyzed using ordinal logistic regression. The findings revealed a significant positive effect of JIT inventory management on operational performance (β = 3.555, p < 0.001). The results indicate that effective JIT implementation enhances operational performance through improved inventory control, reduced waste, and efficient resource utilization. The study recommends strengthening JIT practices through integrated inventory management systems, employee training, supplier coordination, and continuous performance monitoring.