The use of total quality management as a business improvement strategy in Soweto furniture manufacturing SMMEs, South Africa

This study investigates the use of TQM as a business improvement strategy in furniture manufacturing SMMEs and the impact of supply chain management on product quality of furniture manufacturing SMMEs that are situated in Orlando Industrial Park and Freedom Park. It was discovered in this study that supply chain starts with the supplier and end with the customer. The study reveals that furniture manufacturing SMMEs must make relationships with all the stakeholders involved, including other organization as it helps to improve the competitiveness of the enterprise and it further helps with learning from enterprises. A long-term relationship needs to be made with the suppliers of the enterprise. This study adopted a mixed method approach by developing a case study, questionnaires were issued, observations were made and managers and owners were interviewed as well. This study adds knowledge on the impact of the supply chain on product quality. Further research must be made on the effectiveness of TQM on furniture manufacturing SMMEs.