Influence of Business Ethical Practices on Production Performance in the Manufacturing Sector: A Focus on Zimtile Private Limited, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of business ethical practices on production performance within the Zimbabwean manufacturing sector, specifically at Zimtile Private Limited. It addresses the pressing issue of declining production efficiency, which has led to financial challenges, including high customer turnover and employee attrition. Employing a pragmatic research approach combining positivist and constructivist paradigms, the study utilized a mixed-methods design involving open and closed questionnaires, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews with 214 participants. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, revealing that good corporate governance, financial integrity, and labor rights significantly impacted production performance. Contrary to expectations, corporate social responsibility was not statistically significant in determining production outcomes. The findings indicate a statistically significant positive correlation between business ethical practices and production performance; however, production performance was better explained by other factors beyond ethics. The study concludes that while ethical practices play a role, optimizing production efficiency remains the primary goal for manufacturing organizations. It recommends integrating ethical considerations into all organizational processes and adopting innovative methodologies, such as the Industrial Internet of Things and Lean Manufacturing, to enhance performance and sustainability in the sector.

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