Linking smart manufacturing technologies and sustainable corporate performance: evidence from emerging economy

The contemporary business landscape, characterized by rapid fluctuations and intense competition, has put considerable pressure on enterprises to embrace sustainable methodologies. In recent years, lean manufacturing seems to be a visible trend in most of the manufacturing industries in emerging nations including Vietnam as lean tends to emphasize on waste reduction in production. The implementation of smart, green, and lean models, however, remains relatively nascent, lacking a comprehensive research framework and integration of these constituent elements on sustainability. The article, therefore, reinforces the previous research parameters while examining the relationship of smart manufacturing technologies and green manufacturing practices on lean manufacturing within the context of sustainable corporate performance, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the food industry including packaged food production, agricultural product processing, and seafood processing of Vietnam. Quantitative methodology through structural equation modeling is employed to validate the constructs and variables. The findings demonstrate that lean manufacturing serves as a complete mediator, facilitating the enhancement of sustainable corporate performance through the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies. Furthermore, the results emphasize the moderating effect of green manufacturing practices in bolstering the relationship between smart manufacturing technologies and lean manufacturing. These insights hold substantial implications for Vietnamese firms and those in similar emerging economies, providing actionable guidance to fortify their integration of smart, green, and lean manufacturing, thereby enhancing competitiveness and fostering sustainable development.