Influence of Supply Chain Orientation and Knowledge and Information Sharing Practices on Sustainable SME Performance

ABSTRACT

This study examines how supply chain orientation (SCO) and knowledge and information sharing practices (KISP) are associated with the performance of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) from a triple bottom line (TBL) perspective. Drawing on survey data from 392 SMEs across the United States, France, and India, the study employs regression analysis to assess both the independent and interactive associations of SCO and KISP with financial (profit), environmental (planet), and social (people) performance outcomes. The findings indicate that SCO and KISP are associated with TBL performance, although the pattern of associations varies across performance dimensions and model specifications. Moreover, the interaction between SCO and KISP is significantly related to financial and social performance, suggesting that the effectiveness of SCO depends on the presence of strong internal KISP. However, the interaction effect is not significant for environmental performance, indicating that additional factors may influence sustainability‐related outcomes. This study contributes to the literature by clarifying the conceptualization of KISP, thereby improving alignment between theoretical framing and empirical measurement. It further suggests the importance of integrating strategic orientation with internal organizational capabilities and extends performance analysis beyond financial outcomes through the application of a TBL framework. The cross‐national design also highlights the role of contextual differences reflected in cross‐national variation among SCO, KISP, and firm performance.