Abstract
Orientation: Global supply chains are increasingly vulnerable to systemic disruptions,
especially in port-centric logistics networks in emerging markets. South Africa’s Port of
Durban, a critical point for retail supply chains, has experienced frequent inefficiencies,
compounding the risks faced by import-dependent retailers.
Research purpose: This study investigates how inventory strategies, particularly those
grounded in supply chain resilience theory (SCRT), can be reimagined to mitigate the impact
of chronic port disruptions in South Africa.
Motivation for the study: While SCRT has been widely explored in developed contexts, its
applicability to emerging economies with infrastructural volatility and institutional constraints
remains under-examined. This article addresses that gap by focusing on disruption-prone
environments.
Research design, approach and method: The article adopts a structured conceptual
methodology, synthesising academic literature published between 2013 and 2024 and
integrating industry reports, trade publications and case-based insights. The approach
involves thematic synthesis and comparative analysis, with attention to limitations inherent in
desktop research.
Main findings: The analysis reveals that lean, just-in-time (JIT) systems are increasingly
unsustainable in South Africa’s port environment. Resilience-oriented strategies, such as
redundancy, collaboration and digital visibility, provide stronger protection for retail supply
chains. Inventory redundancy, though cost-intensive, emerges as a strategic asset rather than
a liability.
Practical/managerial implications: Retailers are encouraged to adopt modular, contextsensitive
adaptations of SCRT, including selective redundancy for high-margin products,
supplier diversification and technology-driven visibility. Policymakers should prioritise
infrastructural modernisation and improved port governance.
Contribution/value-add: This article contributes to supply chain resilience literature by
adapting SCRT to the realities of emerging markets and by proposing a revised conceptual
framework for inventory structuring under disruption. It highlights the importance of
balancing efficiency and resilience in high-risk port environments. Policy and managerial
implications include prioritising infrastructural upgrades, promoting public-private
collaboration and adopting modular, context-sensitive inventory strategies to enhance supply
chain resilience in emerging market retail.