Volume 64, Issue 4 pp. 3841-3881
RESEARCH ARTICLE

Supply chain risks and geographical supplier distribution strategy

Qianru Zhuo

Qianru Zhuo

School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China

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Libin Qin

Libin Qin

School of Accounting, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China

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Wei Liu

Corresponding Author

Wei Liu

School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China

Correspondence

Wei Liu, School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.

Email: [email protected]

Ying Liu, School of Business, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.

Email: [email protected]

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Ying Liu

Corresponding Author

Ying Liu

School of Business, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China

Correspondence

Wei Liu, School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.

Email: [email protected]

Ying Liu, School of Business, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.

Email: [email protected]

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Jiaxing You

Jiaxing You

School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China

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First published: 30 June 2024
Citations: 2

Abstract

This study empirically examines the impact of supply chain risks on the corporate strategy of the geographical distribution of suppliers, by employing text analysis to procure firm-level supply chain risk data. The findings indicate that, as supply chain risks intensify, firms are inclined to opt for geographically closer suppliers. Heterogeneity studies suggest that the effect of supply chain risks on the selection of geographically proximate suppliers is more pronounced within firms characterised by intense competition, low supplier concentration, low switching costs and in non-state-owned enterprises. Further analysis identifies that the supply chain risks, which drive strategies for firms to utilise a geographically proximate supplier distribution, stem from various sources. Each of these sources varies in its impact on a firm's strategies. Tests of economic consequences reveal that, in scenarios of heightened supply chain risks, firms' strategic geographic adjustments in supplier selection can favourably impact their supply chain management efficiency and operational risk.

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

Data will be made available on request.

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