FACTORS AFFECTING EFFICIENCY IN LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE OF TRADING AND DISTRIBUTION FIRMS BASED IN JOMO KENYATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AREA
Wanjiku Gacuru - Master of Science in Procurement and Logistics of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya
Dr. Karanja Kabare - Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya
ABSTRACT
This study sought to establish factors affecting efficiency of logistics performance in trading and distribution firms based in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The analysis of this study was conducted by discussing different concepts of information technology, competence and business to business relationship and their impact on logistics performance with conceptual framework. An analytical model is also presented. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was the 42 respondents working in the logistics firms at JKIA. The study collected both primary and secondary data. Primary data was gathered using semi-structured questionnaires where the respondents were issued with the tool. A pilot study was done to test the validity and reliability of the questionnaires. Descriptive analysis conducted and this included the weighted means, standard deviation, relative frequencies and percentages. Statistical tools such as SPSS and MS excel assisted in the coding and extraction of these measures. Tables and other graphical presentations were appropriately used to present the data that was collected for ease of understanding and analysis. ANOVA and Chi-square data analysis methods were applied to test the research hypothesis on whether there is any significant difference between the study variables. In addition, regression was used to establish the relationship between the study variables. The study found that information technology, level of competence, business to business relationship affects the efficiency of logistics performance in trade and distribution firms based in JKIA area. The study concludes that that information technology, level of competence and business to business relationship affects the efficiency of logistics performance in trade and distribution firms. The study recommends that the logistic firms should enhance the use information technologies that are compatible with their logistics activities. The trade and distribution firms should employ a change agents to oversee the staffs of the logistics forms undergo on the job training, in order to improve their skills and capabilities to enhance efficiency of logistics performance. Efforts should reach across the entire logistics industry to help streamline essential infrastructure and processes to enhance service delivery, reduce costs and improve responsiveness to customer demand in the logistics activities.
