TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN THE BREWERY INDUSTRY IN EDO STATE

Abstract

Across various industries and sectors, the strategic importance of total quality management in enhancing operational efficiency has been widely emphasized. The study examined the role of TQM in optimizing operational performance within the brewery industry in Edo State. Specifically, three key dimensions of TQM - customer focus, continuous improvement, and process management - were highlighted for their effect on operational efficiency. Corresponding hypotheses were formulated for testing. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design, utilizing a survey to collect data. The study population comprised employees of Nigerian Brewery and Guinness Nigeria PLC in Edo State, totaling 1,978 staff as of November 2023. A sample size of 332 was derived using the Yamane sampling size determination formula. The study utilized stratified and convenience sampling techniques. The proportional allocation method was used to distribute the sample size across the strata in the brewery organizations. The data was collected using a well-structured research instrument designed on a 5-point Likert scale to elicit responses concerning the studied variables. The hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analysis at 5% level of significance. The findings of the study showed that the three dimensions of TQM examined had significant positive effect on operational performance of the brewery industry in Edo State. The study concluded that customer focus, continual improvement, and process management significantly influenced operational performance, and recommended amongst other things that the breweries should adopt structured process management frameworks focusing on continual improvement, efficiency, and quality control to enhance operational performance.