Supply Chain Resilience in Honduran Nanostores: Digital Transformation and Operational Flexibility in Emerging Markets (#1121)

Authors

Ortega-Jimenez, Cesar H

Melgar-Martínez, Narciso A

Sabillon Palomeque, Dany N.

Calix Melendez, Flavio L.

Abstract

This study investigates how adaptability mechanisms enhance supply chain performance in nanostores, focusing on the mediating role of digital transformation and the moderating role of operational flexibility in micro-retail networks. It addresses the limited understanding of adaptability in resource-constrained micro-retail contexts, a significant gap given nanostores’ economic importance and challenges like resource constraints. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), data from 204 Honduran nanostore owners and employees, collected via stratified random sampling, were analyzed to test a theoretical framework linking adaptability, digital transformation, operational flexibility, and supply chain performance. Results show that adaptability enhances performance (β = 0.548, p < 0.001), with digital transformation partially mediating (indirect effect = 0.255, p < 0.001) and operational flexibility moderating (interaction effect = 0.264, p < 0.01) this relationship, explaining 68.4% of performance variance. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and self-reported measures, though urban (65%) and rural (35%) representation supports generalizability. Findings highlight digital integration and flexible operations as key to nanostore resilience. Managers can develop targeted interventions, and policymakers should prioritize digital infrastructure. This first SEM-based analysis of nanostore adaptability in emerging markets offers a novel framework for micro-retail resilience.