Evaluating Conflict Management Strategies and Supply Chain Performance: A Systematic Literature Review Within Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Sector

Abstract

This systematic literature review explores how conflict management strategies (CMS) impact supply chain performance (SCP), focusing on the mediating roles of supply chain operational processes (SCOP) and customer-centric green supply chain management (CCGSCM) within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. Framed within smart city initiatives and sustainable development goals (SDGs 9, 11, and 12), this study addresses critical gaps identified in the literature, particularly the lack of integrated examination of CMS impacts in emerging markets like Jordan. Utilizing thematic analysis, this review consolidates key findings across relevant studies from 2010 to 2025 sourced from top-tier databases. The results reveal that collaboration emerges as the most effective CMS strategy, enhancing stakeholder interactions, operational coordination, and resilience. SCOP significantly mediate CMS–SCP relationships, with logistics and inventory management notably vital in mitigating disruptions. Additionally, CCGSCM is highlighted as pivotal for sustainability and operational efficiency in post-COVID market conditions. The findings offer valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers, providing strategic recommendations for integrating technology-driven and relationship-focused CMS tailored to Jordan’s unique socio-economic context, thereby aligning operational practices with global sustainability goals (SDGs 9, 11, and 12).

1. Introduction

Strategic industrial planning through smart city initiatives is vital for sustainable infrastructure and production, aligning with SDGs 9, 11, and 12 [1,2,3]. However, practical implementation of these initiatives in dynamic sectors, particularly concerning their comprehensive societal impact and ability to address intricate urban challenges, often involves complex conceptual developments that warrant critical examination beyond mere descriptive enumeration [1,4,5]. The sector faces significant challenges due to resource scarcity, fragmented regulations, and operational inefficiencies, resulting in frequent stakeholder conflicts [6,7,8]. Thus, effective conflict management strategies (CMS) are crucial for enhancing collaboration, operational efficiency, and resilience against disruptions [9].

While CMS have been widely explored within well-established markets [10,11], research specific to Jordan’s socio-economic and geopolitical context remains limited [12,13]. Additionally, previous studies have independently examined supply chain operational processes (SCOP) and customer-centric green supply chain management (CCGSCM) but have not investigated their combined mediating roles between CMS and supply chain performance (SCP), especially within industries prioritizing sustainability [5,14].

Addressing this gap, this study leverages stakeholder theory [15] and conflict management theory [16] to explore how CMS influence SCP through SCOP and CCGSCM mediation. Given recent reports highlighting significant operational inefficiencies from unresolved supply chain conflicts among Jordanian food manufacturers [17], the urgency of this investigation is evident. Therefore, through a systematic, integrative literature review, this paper aims to identify effective CMS practices, highlight the mediating influences of SCOP and CCGSCM, and offer valuable theoretical and practical insights tailored specifically to emerging markets like Jordan.

2. Methodology

This study employed a rigorous systematic literature review (SLR), adopting an integrative thematic synthesis approach [18,19] to investigate the impact of conflict management strategies (CMS) on supply chain performance (SCP) mediated by supply chain operational processes (SCOP) and customer-centric green supply chain management (CCGSCM) within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. This integrative approach is particularly suited for synthesizing diverse qualitative, quantitative, and conceptual studies in complex business domains, ensuring comprehensive knowledge synthesis while maintaining methodological rigor and transparency.

2.1. Search Strategy and Study Selection

A structured and transparent literature search process, following a three-phase selection approach (identification, screening, and inclusion), was conducted across top-tier academic databases. These included Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar, supplemented by reputable institutional reports (e.g., World Bank, United Nations). The search period was strictly limited to peer-reviewed empirical research published between 2010 and 2025.

Search terms were carefully developed and combined using Boolean logic (AND, OR) to ensure both relevance and breadth. Key terms included, but were not limited to: “conflict management strategies”, “supply chain operational performance”, “Jordanian industrial sector”, and “green supply chain management”.

The study selection process is comprehensively detailed in a PRISMA-style flow diagram (Figure 1). This diagram illustrates the rigorous screening and selection of articles. Initially, a total of 3500 records were identified across all databases. From Web of Science and Scopus, 1907 records were identified. An additional 6 records were identified through other sources (e.g., governmental reports, institutional publications, industry reports). After removing duplicates, 2380 unique records remained. These records underwent title and abstract screening, resulting in the exclusion of 1500 articles that were clearly relevant or did not meet initial screening criteria. The full texts of the remaining 880 articles were then retrieved and meticulously assessed for eligibility against predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

2.2. Data Extraction and Thematic Synthesis

Data extraction from the included studies involved a structured approach to capture relevant information pertaining to CMS impacts, the mediating roles of SCOP and CCGSCM, and SCP outcomes. For comprehensive data synthesis, NVivo 12 (QSR International) software was employed for qualitative data coding. The thematic synthesis process followed established guidelines [20] and involved several iterative steps: (1) familiarization with the data through repeated reading; (2) initial coding of relevant data segments; (3) grouping initial codes into potential overarching themes; (4) refining and reviewing topics; and (5) defining and naming themes, categorized into key areas: CMS impacts, mediating roles of SCOP and CCGSCM, and SCP outcomes. This rigorous process systematically consolidated findings, identified patterns, and synthesized diverse empirical evidence to answer the study’s research questions and build robust conceptual insights. The relationships between these themes were also analyzed to determine interdependencies and how CMS influence SCOP and SCP.

2.3. Quality Appraisal and Justification for Excluding Meta-Analysis

To ensure the validity and reliability of the included studies, a systematic quality assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool [21] and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) [22]. Each study was evaluated based on research design rigor, theoretical grounding, empirical robustness, and applicability to real-world supply chains. Only studies demonstrating methodological transparency and empirical support were retained for synthesis.

A meta-analysis was considered impractical [23,24] due to significant methodological and conceptual heterogeneity among the studies included. This heterogeneity manifested in three key areas:

1.

Variability in CMS Definitions: Different studies categorized CMS under varying theoretical frameworks (e.g., Rahim’s five-strategy model [14], stakeholder conflict models [15,25], resource dependence theory [26]), making direct quantitative comparisons inconsistent.

2.

Divergent Measurement of SCP: SCP is often measured through operational efficiency indicators, but studies use inconsistent KPI frameworks (e.g., cost efficiency, flexibility, and responsiveness). Prior systematic reviews on SCP (e.g., [27,28]) have highlighted the challenge of harmonizing non-standardized measurement scales, which precludes meaningful statistical aggregation.

3.

Diversity in Research Methodologies: The dataset included qualitative case studies, survey-based empirical studies, and mixed-method research, many of which lacked standardized effect sizes (e.g., [18]. Similar challenges in meta-analysis feasibility have been documented in SCM literature (e.g., [27,29], where methodological diversity prevents statistical pooling.

Given these inconsistencies, conducting a meta-analysis would have led to biased or misleading conclusions. Instead, the chosen integrative thematic synthesis approach utilizing thematic synthesis [20] and comparative analysis allowed for a deeper conceptual interpretation of findings rather than relying on statistical aggregation. This robust method effectively minimized potential biases inherent in combining heterogeneous studies, ensuring that our analysis moved beyond mere description to provide nuanced insights and address the ‘to what’ query by building a cohesive understanding from disparate findings. An initial feasibility assessment further confirmed the impracticality of statistical synthesis.

2.4. Limitations of the Methodology

Despite the robust selection and synthesis process, certain limitations exist that could impact generalizability. These include the exclusion of non-English studies, potentially limiting cross-cultural perspectives, and the geographical focus bias toward Jordan’s industrial sector, which may constrain direct generalizability to other global contexts.

3. Literature Research and Results

3.1. Theoretical Background

This study employs five theoretical lenses to analyze CMS in Jordan’s food manufacturing. Social exchange theory (SET) [30,31] highlights reciprocal trust, crucial for collaborative CMS strategies in Jordan’s relationship-focused market. Resource dependence theory (RDT) [26] helps manage Jordan’s reliance on imported resources through strategic conflict resolution. Game theory [32] provides insights into strategic interactions in Jordan’s fragmented market. Conflict theory [33,34,35] explains power dynamics and resource conflicts, showing how large stakeholders influence smaller manufacturers. Finally, stakeholder theory [15,25] stresses balancing diverse interests, vital in Jordan’s complex regulatory environment. These theories collectively illuminate how CMS impact supply chain operations and performance, fostering efficiency and resilience. Specifically, they offer a multi-faceted lens to dissect the intricate interplay between conflict dynamics, operational processes, green practices, and overall supply chain outcomes in emerging markets. This comprehensive theoretical integration is crucial for addressing the identified research gaps by providing a robust farmwork to understand how CMS influence SCP through SCOP and CCGSCM mediation [5,36,37,38,39,40].

3.2. Conflict Management Strategies (CMS) in Supply Chains

Conflict management strategies (CMS) strategically address and resolve disputes within supply chains to enhance operational efficiency, stability, and stakeholder relationships [41,42]. Within the Jordanian food manufacturing sector, characterized by geopolitical complexity, resource scarcity, stringent regulations, and market volatility, effective CMS are critical [43,44]. They support sustainable supply chain practices, optimize resource allocation, and ensure food security, directly aligning with national priorities and broader sustainability objectives. This study will examine specific five strategies.

(1)

Collaboration

Collaboration in Jordan’s food manufacturing is essential due to resource scarcity and geopolitical influences [45]. It involves joint resource and knowledge sharing to enhance resource utilization and supply stability [46,47], building supply chain resilience through improved demand forecasting and production coordination [48].

(2)

Accommodation

Accommodation is vital in Jordan’s food sector for navigating relationships with diverse stakeholders, including governmental bodies and suppliers [49,50]. It involves prioritizing others’ concerns to maintain relational harmony, especially when dealing with regulatory compliance [51] and supplier needs [52], ensuring operational stability.

(3)

Avoidance

Avoidance is crucial in Jordan’s food sector for navigating socio-political and economic conflicts, buffering the supply chain from potential disruptions [14,53]. This strategy allows businesses to focus on operational efficiency by disengaging from non-essential conflicts that could destabilize the supply chain [41,54].

(4)

Compromise

Compromise is essential in Jordan’s food sector due to the need to balance the interests of diverse stakeholders, such as farmers and producers [55]. It involves mutual concessions to reach acceptable solutions on issues like pricing and volumes vital [56,57], safeguarding relationships and maintaining operational flow.

(5)

Competition

Competition in Jordan’s food manufacturing sector can manifest in price negotiations and delivery prioritization [14,58] While it can drive efficiency, it can also cause conflicts when interests clash or resources are [59]. Understanding its impact on stakeholder relationships is crucial for mitigating potential disruptions.

CMS in the Context of Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Sector

In Jordan’s food sector, conflict management strategies (CMS) are vital for navigating supply chain challenges arising from geopolitical, economic, and socio-cultural factors [60]. Applying collaboration, accommodation, avoidance, compromise, and competition strategies is crucial for managing conflicts among stakeholders over pricing, quality, and delivery [61]. Collaboration using smart technologies like blockchain supports Jordan’s smart city initiatives and sustainability goals (SDG 11 & 12). Jordan’s unique socio-economic and geopolitical context, including resource scarcity and regional instability, intensifies the need for effective CMS [39,62].

Table 1. Summary of conflict management strategies literature review.

Category	Description	Importance in Supply Chain	Relevance in Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Sector	Citations
Introduction to CMS	Strategies pivotal for navigating supply chain complexities, enhancing efficiency, and improving stakeholder relationships.	Vital for resolving disagreements, improving operational processes, and boosting overall performance.	Essential for managing complexities and conflicts arising from internal and external factors, crucial for the sector’s sustainability and growth.	[41,42,43,63]
Collaboration	Parties work jointly, sharing resources, knowledge, and capabilities for mutually beneficial outcomes.	Mitigates risks, enhances efficiency, fosters innovation, and strengthens relationships.	Instrumental for facing challenges like resource scarcity, geopolitical influences, and global market fluctuations. Enhances resource utilization and risk mitigation.	[45,46,47,48,64,65]
Accommodation	One side willingly compromises, prioritizing others’ concerns and preferences.	Preserves harmonious relationships, where stakeholder dynamics are disparate, and conflicting issues are non-central to outcomes.	Vital for navigating various stakeholder expectations and regulatory frameworks, fortifying relationships, and ensuring a reliable supply chain.	[49,50,52,66,67]
Avoidance	Deliberate disengagement from conflicts, neither addressing nor confronting the issue.	Practical for bypassing disruptions unrelated to core operations, preserving operational flow, and avoiding unnecessary strain.	Essential for maneuvering socio-political and economic conflicts, acting as a buffer against potential disruptions and maintaining consistent internal operations.	[14,41,53,54]
Compromise	A mutual give-and-take approach to establish an acceptable solution, relinquishing certain stances.	Ensures smooth operations amidst disagreements, finding a middle ground in disputes essential for process continuity.	Prominent in managing diverse stakeholder interests, stabilizing supply chain segments, and maintaining operational flow without significant sacrifice.	[55,56,57]
Competition	High concern for one’s interests over others, potentially leading to win–lose outcomes.	Can drive efficiency and innovation but may lead to conflicts if not managed adeptly, especially when resources are scarce or objectives conflict.	Influences stakeholder negotiations and operational priorities, requiring adept management to prevent potential negative consequences like strained relationships.	[14,58,59]
CMS in Jordan’s Food Sector	Essential for managing diverse challenges within the food sector’s supply chain, influenced by various internal and external factors.	Critical for managing discrepancies in interests, objectives, and operational preferences among stakeholders.	Intensified need for adept CMS due to socio-economic and geopolitical challenges, ensuring stability and efficiency within the supply chain.	[39,60,61,68]

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

’s summary of the literature review on conflict management strategies outlines various conflict management strategies (CMS). For each strategy (such as collaboration, accommodation, avoidance, compromise, and competition), it provides a general description, discusses its importance in the context of supply chains, and highlights its specific relevance and application within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. The table also includes an introduction to CMS and a dedicated section on CMS within Jordan’s food sector, with all information supported by academic citations.

3.3. Comparative Discussion: CMS in Developed vs. Emerging Economies

To contextualize the comparative analysis, it is pertinent to briefly outline the economic and demographic landscapes of the countries under consideration. Jordan, an emerging market, has a population of approximately 11.4 million and a GDP of around $51 billion (2023 est.), characterized by unique socio-economic and geopolitical complexities. By contrast, the UAE, a highly developed economy, boasts a smaller population of roughly 9.5 million but a significantly larger GDP of approximately $515 billion (2023 est.), indicative of its advanced infrastructure and diversified economy. Similarly, Singapore, a highly regulated and technologically advanced market, has a population of about 5.9 million and a substantial GDP of around $501 billion (2023 est.), reflecting its role as a global trade hub. Understanding these fundamental economic and demographic distinctions provides a critical backdrop for analyzing the varying applications and outcomes of CMS strategies across these diverse supply chain environments [69].

Jordan’s food manufacturing relies heavily on relationship-based CMS, emphasizing trust and informal negotiations [4,5,70], contrasting with developed markets that prioritize technology-driven solutions and formal agreements [41,71,72]. This distinction is crucial for understanding SCP in Jordan, where socio-economic and geopolitical complexities necessitate collaborative strategies. The study highlights that while collaborative CMS strategies enhance SCP through improved efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction, the reliance on personal connections in Jordan presents unique challenges compared to the data-driven approaches of developed economies. This reinforces the study’s conclusion that adaptive, collaborative, and customer-centric green practices are vital but must be tailored to Jordan’s specific context, recognizing the limitations of solely relationship-focused methods and the potential for integrating appropriate technological advancements (see

Table 2. CMS strategies across global contexts.

CMS Strategy	Jordan (Emerging Market)	UAE (Advanced SCM Tech)	Singapore (Regulated SCM)
Collaboration	Relationship-based trust	AI-driven coordination	Government-mandated SCM rules
Avoidance	Conflict avoidance due to business risks	Rare due to strict compliance	Penalized under strict SCM policies
Competition	Dominant retailers enforce strict supplier terms	Strong government price controls	Competitive SCM innovation
Compromise	Informal negotiation tactics	Formalized dispute resolution	Arbitration frameworks exist
Accommodation	Supplier-driven flexibility due to power imbalances	Buyer-driven due to strict standards	Legally enforced SCM contracts

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

and

Table 3. CMS outcomes across Jordan, UAE, and Singapore, emphasizing key performance indicators.

CMS Strategy	Jordan (Emerging Market) Outcomes	UAE Outcomes	Singapore Outcomes
Collaboration	Increased supplier loyalty, slower tech adoption	Faster order fulfillment, AI-based collaboration	Highly efficient dispute resolution, regulatory enforcement
Avoidance	Supplier retention but higher supply risks	Risk minimization via tech-driven solutions	Conflict escalation prevention due to strict laws
Competition	Cost pressures on suppliers, market fragmentation	Government intervention, stabilized pricing	Competitive advantage through innovation
Compromise	Flexible but inconsistent SCM performance	Legal frameworks ensure enforceability	High compliance, standardized negotiations
Accommodation	Power imbalances, reactive	Balanced SCM relationships	Institutionalized supplier protection laws

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

).

Table 2 provides a comparative overview of how different conflict management strategies (CMS), such as collaboration, avoidance, competition, compromise, and accommodation, are applied in three distinct global contexts: Jordan, characterized as an emerging market; the UAE, noted for its advanced SCM technology; and Singapore, with its regulated SCM environment. The table illustrates the typical manifestation of each strategy within these varied settings.

Table 3 details the comparative outcomes of various conflict management strategies (CMS)—including collaboration, avoidance, and competition—across Jordan, the UAE, and Singapore. For each strategy, the table outlines the typical results and consequences observed in these different markets, emphasizing their impact on supply chain performance and dynamics within each specific region.

3.4. Supply Chain Operational Processes (SCOP)

Supply chain operational processes (SCOP) are critical to the food manufacturing sector, ensuring efficient production, storage, and delivery, given product perishability and stringent quality standards [73]. Globally, SCOP encompass production planning, inventory management, and distribution, all essential for a seamless supply chain [74,75,76]. These processes, impacted by technology, regulations, and market dynamics, directly influence supply chain operations [77]. This study explores how SCOP mediate the relationship between conflict management strategies and supply chain performance, examining how effective production planning and inventory management, for example, mitigate conflicts and ensure operational efficiency.

-

Production Planning

Production planning, crucial for efficient food manufacturing, involves determining product volume and timing based on demand, resources, and capacity [78]. In Jordan, this planning is vital for navigating fluctuating demand and resource limitations [79]. Effective planning optimizes resource use, reduces waste, and addresses supply chain conflicts, with resource constraints [80]. Jordan’s production planning is influenced by raw material availability and technological advancements, such as Industry 4.0 [81,82]. This study examines how production planning, as a SCOP dimension, impacts the relationship between conflict management and supply chain performance, specifically how it mitigates conflicts and optimizes performance in Jordan’s food sector.

-

Inventory Management

Inventory management, crucial for balancing inventory costs and demand, is especially complex in Jordan’s perishable food sector [83,84]. Effective inventory management, using techniques like JIT and EOQ, mitigates stakeholder disputes and controls costs [85]. However, Jordan faces unique challenges due to product perishability, demand fluctuations, and regional instability [29]. Aligning inventory control with conflict resolution is vital for Jordanian firms, and analyzing local case studies reveals how inventory management enhances supply chain efficiency and reduces conflicts [61].

-

Distribution

Distribution, a key SCOP element, ensures timely and accurate delivery of finished products, crucial in Jordan’s food sector for maintaining product freshness and customer satisfaction [86,87]. Strategic distribution alignment with conflict management can mitigate stakeholder disputes by ensuring reliable and cost-effective delivery.

-

Logistics

Logistics, another vital SCOP component, manages the movement and storage of goods throughout the supply chain. In Jordan, logistics is essential for navigating geopolitical and market challenges [27]. Effective logistics, including transportation and warehousing, minimizes costs and ensures timely delivery, directly impacting supply chain performance. Integrating logistics with conflict management ensures reliability and efficiency for all stakeholders [37].

-

The Mediating Role of SCOP in CMS → SCP Relationship

Supply chain operational processes (SCOP) act as a crucial link between conflict management strategies (CMS) and supply chain performance (SCP), translating conflict resolution into operational efficiency. However, the exact interplay between SCOP and CMS remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by analyzing how four SCOP dimensions—production planning, inventory management, distribution, and logistics—interact with CMS.

Table 4. SCOP components and their role in conflict resolution.

Supply Chain Operational Process	How It Mediates CMS → SCP	Examples of CMS Influence
Production Planning	Aligns production schedules with stakeholder expectations to reduce demand fluctuations	Collaboration CMS: Joint production planning enhances supply chain agility (Sarkis et al., 2022) [88]
Inventory Management	Balances stock availability to mitigate supply chain disruptions	Avoidance CMS: Poor communication leads to stock shortages (Christopher & Holweg, 2017) [89]
Distribution	Optimizes transportation and last-mile delivery, reducing delays	Competitive CMS: Power asymmetries increase lead times for smaller suppliers (Ketchen & Hult, 2021) [90]
Logistics	Enhances resilience through technology-driven coordination	Compromise CMS: Shared logistics resources lower transportation costs (Prajogo et al., 2022) [91]

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

details various components of supply chain operational processes (SCOP), such as production planning, inventory management, distribution, and logistics, and clarifies their role in conflict resolution. For each SCOP component, the table explains how it mediates the relationship between conflict management strategies (CMS) and supply chain performance (SCP), and it provides specific examples (with citations) illustrating how different CMS strategies influence these operational areas.

Jordan’s food manufacturing sector faces unique logistical, regulatory, and geopolitical constraints that impact SCOP effectiveness as a mediator between CMS and SCP. Complex customs regulations and import dependencies, coupled with a lack of standardized SCM regulations, create regulatory barriers [92]. Geopolitical constraints, such as landlocked geography and regional conflicts, disrupt supply chain routes and increase costs [92,93]. Furthermore, technology limitations like the limited adoption of AI and blockchain and a lack of integrated supply chain data impede SCOP efficiency [5,94]. These constraints necessitate resilience-focused CMS strategies, refining SCOP as a structured mediator and providing a practical framework for optimizing SCM decisions in conflict-prone supply chains.

-

SCOP within Jordan’s Socio-Economic Context

Supply chain operational processes (SCOP) in Jordan’s food manufacturing sector are significantly shaped by its complex socio-economic context, including geopolitical instability, resource scarcity, and economic fluctuations [82]. This sector requires resilient SCOP to navigate stringent regulations and market dynamics [60,95]. Integrating conflict management strategies is crucial for mitigating disruptions in logistics, distribution, production planning, and inventory management to meet fluctuating demands and stakeholder expectations [39,41]. Jordan’s economic stability, influenced by external factors, directly impacts resource availability and market demand, necessitating adaptive SCOP for sustainable supply chain performance [96,97].

Table 5. Summary of supply chain operational processes literature review.

Supply Chain Operational Process	Description	Key Points	Citations
Overview	The backbone of the food manufacturing sector, crucial for efficient and effective production, storage, and delivery to meet consumer demand.	- Nuanced due to perishable products. - Requires efficient strategies for production, inventory, distribution, and logistics.	[74,75,76,77,98]
Production Planning	Ensures items are created efficiently, deciding what to make, its volume, and production timing. Tackles challenges like changing demand and resource limits.	- Influences supply chain performance metrics. - Essential in resolving supply chain disagreements.	[78,79,80,81,82]
Inventory Management	Oversight of non-capitalized assets, stock items, and inventory levels. Balances costs with the benefits of meeting demand.	- Linked to product quality and waste minimization. - Techniques like JIT and EOQ are crucial.	[29,61,83,84,85]
Distribution	Strategic dissemination of products from manufacturers to consumers. Involves logistical and strategic endeavors affecting performance and relationships.	- Essential for maintaining product freshness and quality. - Mitigates stakeholder conflicts through reliable delivery.	[86,87]
Logistics	Coordinated management of movement and storage of goods in the supply chain. Ensures seamless operation amidst various challenges.	- Minimizes costs, optimizes efficiency. - Influences performance and stakeholder satisfaction.	[27,37]
SCOP in Jordan’s Context	Influenced by geopolitical, economic, and stakeholder complexities. Necessitates resilient processes for optimal performance.	- Integration with conflict management strategies is crucial. - Must be adaptive and aligned with socio-economic factors.	[39,41,60,82,95,96,97]

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

presents a literature review summary of supply chain operational processes (SCOP). For each key process—including an overview, production planning, inventory management, distribution, and logistics—the table provides a general description and highlights key points. It also specifically addresses SCOP within Jordan’s context, with all entries supported by academic citations.

3.5. Customer-Centric Green Supply Chain Management (CCGSCM) as a Strategic Sustainability Mediator

Customer-centric green supply chain management (GSCM) contributes to the smart business concept by integrating sustainable practices with a focus on customer needs, enhancing resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and promoting circular economy principles, as evidenced by recent research [99]. In the current business landscape, smart business practices face a fundamental shift toward focusing on customer satisfaction while integrating environmental sustainability [100]. The primary objective of CCGSCM is not only to increase the efficiency and sustainability of supply chain practices but also to consider customers’ expectations. This aspect is relevant and preferred in today’s environmentally conscious market [101].

Previous studies have highlighted that aligning green supply chain management (GSCM) practices with customer expectations can significantly improve operational efficiency while simultaneously enhancing customer satisfaction [102,103]. This dual focus on efficiency and satisfaction positions CCGSCM as a critical strategy for businesses aiming to thrive in the modern marketplace.

This approach aligns supply chain practices with customer expectations for sustainability, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. The pandemic has further amplified the relevance and popularity of CCGSCM, changing consumers’ expectations, making them more proactive in seeking sustainable practices and expecting organizations to engage in and incorporate social responsibility and sustainable practices [104]. This shift has developed unique opportunities for businesses to re-evaluate and enhance their strategies regarding GSCM. By emphasizing a customer-centric approach and prioritizing environmental sustainability, businesses can better meet the evolving demands of the market [105].

3.6. Supply Chain Performance (SCP) Outcomes

3.6.1. Introduction to SCP Metrics and Importance

Supply chain performance (SCP) measures a supply chain’s efficiency and effectiveness in meeting objectives, assessed through metrics like cost management, quality, and responsiveness [28,106]. In food manufacturing, SCP is vital due to product perishability and stringent standards [107]. Efficient SCP enhances competitive advantage and customer satisfaction by ensuring timely delivery and quality [89]. In Jordan’s food sector, SCP is complex due to geopolitical and socio-economic challenges, requiring resilience and adaptability to global market dynamics [79].

3.6.2. Detailed Exploration of Each Measure of SCP

(1)

Cost of Supply Chain

Cost management is a critical dimension of supply chain performance (SCP) in food manufacturing, impacting profitability and competitiveness [108]. It encompasses production, logistics, inventory, and waste costs, requiring strategic planning due to product perishability and stringent regulations [74,109]. In Jordan, cost management is influenced by political instability, resource scarcity, and global commodity prices, notably water scarcity and transportation costs [110,111]. Strategies like Just-In-Time (JIT) inventory and technologies like IoT and blockchain can optimize costs [85,112]. Understanding cost structures in Jordan’s food sector is vital for enhancing efficiency and profitability, especially when evaluating the impact of conflict management strategies on SCP.

(2)

Quality of Supply Chain

Quality is critical in food manufacturing SCP, encompassing safety, consistency, and standards compliance [113]. It extends beyond product excellence to include process and relationship management, with practices like HACCP and GMP as essential [98,114]. Jordan’s food sector faces challenges adhering to standards like ISO 22000 while navigating geopolitical and resource constraints [115,116]. Quality management involves supplier relationships, where collaborative conflict management strategies can enhance input quality [117]. This study explores how conflict management strategies impact quality practices in Jordan’s food SCP, enhancing its competitive position.

(3)

Responsiveness in Supply Chain

Responsiveness in SCP refers to the supply chain’s ability to promptly address market demands, which is critical in the perishable food sector [27]. In Jordan, regional tensions and resource limitations impact responsiveness [118]. Conflict management strategies (CMS) significantly influence this. Collaborative CMS strategies enhance responsiveness through improved communication and decision making [14]. Conversely, avoidance strategies can hinder it. Understanding how CMS affect responsiveness in Jordan’s food sector is crucial for mitigating conflict-driven disruptions and meeting market demands [115].

(4)

Flexibility in Supply Chain

Flexibility in SCP refers to the supply chain’s ability to adapt to variations and disruptions [38]. In food manufacturing, this is crucial due to volatile demand and regulatory standards. In Jordan, geopolitical factors and diverse market demands necessitate flexibility flexibility [119]. Conflict management strategies (CMS) enhance flexibility by preventing conflicts from disrupting operations [14]. For example, compromise can facilitate adaptability. This study explores how CMS impact flexibility in Jordan’s food sector, demonstrating how effective conflict management safeguards adaptability.

(5)

SCP in Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Industry

Supply chain performance (SCP) is vital for Jordan’s food manufacturing sector, impacting economic stability and food security [13]. This industry, a GDP contributor, faces conflicts affecting performance due to its reliance on imported materials and diverse stakeholders [53,120]. Conflict management strategies (CMS) are crucial for navigating these conflicts, which impact costs, quality, responsiveness, and flexibility. This study examines how effective CMS enhance SCP in Jordan’s food sector, providing practical insights for industry practitioners.

To further elaborate on the multi-faceted nature of supply chain performance,

Table 6. Summary of supply chain performance literature review.

Section	Summary	References
Introduction to SCP Metrics and Importance	SCP is critical for assessing supply chain efficiency and effectiveness, impacting competitive advantage and customer satisfaction. It is crucial in the food sector due to product perishability, quality standards, and logistical challenges.	[28,89]
Cost of Supply Chain	Managing costs is essential for profitability, requiring strategic planning, especially in food manufacturing. External factors like geopolitical issues and resource scarcity significantly influence cost management.	[108,110,111]
Quality of Supply Chain	Quality in SCP goes beyond product excellence, requiring adherence to safety standards and consistent output, especially under geopolitical and resource challenges in regions like Jordan.	[113,115]
Responsiveness in Supply Chain	Responsiveness in SCP involves meeting market demands promptly, crucial for customer loyalty and brand image, especially in conflict-prone regions. The impact of CMS on responsiveness is notable.	[14,27]
Flexibility in Supply Chain	SCP flexibility refers to adapting to disruptions and market variations, which is vital in volatile sectors like food manufacturing in Jordan. CMS play a key role in maintaining operational adaptability.	[38,119]
SCP in Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Industry	SCP efficiency in Jordan’s food sector is vital for national economic stability and food security, as it faces challenges due to reliance on imports and various conflicts. Effective CMS is essential for enhancing SCP amidst these challenges.	[13,120]

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

provides a comprehensive summary of key SCP metrics and their relevance within the food manufacturing industry, transitioning from general international relevance to specific manifestations and challenges within Jordanian context.

Table 6 presents a literature review summary focused on supply chain performance (SCP). It details various facets of SCP, including an introduction to its metrics and importance, as well as specific dimensions like cost, quality, responsiveness, and flexibility. For each section, the table provides a concise summary of its key aspects and relevance, with a dedicated focus on SCP within Jordan’s food manufacturing industry, all supported by academic references.

3.7. Tactical Pillars for Constructing Green Supply Chain Resilience in Food Manufacturing

(1)

Relationship Characteristics—Power Dynamics

Power dynamics, characterized by the asymmetrical distribution of influence, significantly impact supply chain operations and conflict management within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector [121]. These dynamics, encompassing various power types like coercion and reward, influence conflict resolution strategies, with dominant players often enforcing their preferred approaches while smaller entities adopt conciliatory tactics [90,122,123]. Furthermore, power influences supply chain operational processes (SCOP) and supply chain performance (SCP) by shaping production strategies, inventory management, and overall efficiency, with dominant firms dictating terms that affect costs, quality, and responsiveness [36,122]. In Jordan, where the food sector is crucial to the economy, power dynamics are shaped by market dominance, resource accessibility, and global presence, leading to significant influence by larger corporations over smaller suppliers and distributors, thus affecting both conflict resolution and operational strategies [124].

(2)

Long-Term Relationships and Conflict Intensity

Stakeholder relations in supply chains are significantly influenced by maintained affiliations and conflict intensity. Long-term relationships, characterized by cooperation and shared goals, foster trust and mitigate conflicts, encouraging collaborative and compromise-based conflict management strategies [67,125]. Conversely, conflict intensity dictates the choice of conflict management, with high-intensity disputes requiring robust strategies like collaboration or competition, while low-intensity conflicts may be addressed through avoidance or accommodation [13,124]. In Jordan’s food manufacturing sector, long-term relationships are crucial for stability, yet conflicts over pricing, delivery, and quality pose challenges. The Jordanian cultural preference for relationship preservation often leads to the adoption of compromise and accommodation to resolve disputes and maintain harmony [126,127].

Table 7. Summary of moderating variables literature review.

Section	Subsection	Description	Citation
Relationship Characteristics—Power Dynamics	Introduction to Power Dynamics in Supply Chains	Power dynamics refer to the asymmetrical influence among entities in supply chains, with some organizations having significant control over terms, decisions, and resources.	[121]
	Types and Sources of Power in Supply Chains	Various types of power exist, including coercive, reward, legitimate, referent, and expert power, each arising from unique sources and affecting entities differently.	[90]
	Relevance of Power Dynamics in Conflict Management	Power dynamics critically influence conflict management strategies in supply chains, with powerful entities enforcing strategies that can range from collaboration to competition.	[122,123]
	Relevance of Power Dynamics in SCOP and SCP	Power dynamics affect operational decisions in supply chains, such as production strategies and inventory management, thereby impacting overall productivity.	[36,122]
	Power Dynamics in Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Sector	In Jordan’s food industry, power dynamics are influenced by factors like market dominance, resource control, and global reach, affecting pricing, quality, and delivery decisions.	[121,124]
Conflict Characteristics—Long-term Relationship and Conflict Intensity	Long-term Relationship and Conflict Intensity: An Overview	Long-standing relationships and conflict intensity are key in understanding stakeholder interactions within supply chains, involving elements of cooperation, shared benefits, and goal alignment.	[124,125]
	Relevance of Long-term Relationships in Conflict Management	Long-term relationships contribute to a culture of trust and mutual reliance, reducing conflicts and encouraging collaborative problem solving.	[67]
	Conflict Intensity and Its Implications	The severity of conflicts influences the choice of management strategy, with high-intensity conflicts necessitating structured resolution methods.	[13]
	Conflict Characteristics within Jordan’s Food Manufacturing Sector	In Jordan, long-term partnerships are crucial for supply chain stability, whereas conflict intensity, influenced by various operational factors, requires careful management to preserve business relationships.	[126,127] Zureiqat & Ostermeier, 2022; Al-Hyari, 2023

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

summarizes the literature review on key moderating variables relevant to supply chain dynamics. It is structured into two main sections: ‘Relationship Characteristics—Power Dynamics’ and ‘Conflict Characteristics—Long-term Relationship and Conflict Intensity.’ Within these sections, various subsections provide detailed descriptions of each variable, discuss their relevance in conflict management and for supply chain operations and performance, and specifically examine their role within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector, all supported by academic citations.

3.8. Accounting for Contextual Influences: The Role of Control Variables

To accurately assess the impact of CMS on SCP in Jordan’s food manufacturing sector, this study controlled for company size, industry segment, and location. Company size influences resource availability and CMS structure, with larger firms adopting structured strategies and smaller ones relying on agile approaches [128,129]. The industry segment shapes operational practices and regulatory requirements, necessitating tailored CMS for challenges like perishable goods and market fluctuations [84,95]. Location impacts logistics and stakeholder interactions, requiring customized CMS like collaboration or compromise to mitigate location-specific risks [41,130]. These controls ensure the study’s robustness, isolating the direct relationship between CMS and SCP, and providing relevant strategic insights for diverse organizational contexts within Jordan.

4. Discussion

This systematic review synthesizes the relationships among conflict management strategies (CMS), supply chain operational processes (SCOP), customer-centric green supply chain management (CCGSCM), and supply chain performance (SCP) within Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. Moving beyond a mere enumeration of findings, this discussion critically analyzes why these relationships manifest, how they contribute to theoretical advancements, and what implications they hold for practice and policy [18,24].

A key finding is that CMS significantly enhance SCP, primarily through SCOP as a mediator, aligning with previous studies across various industries [41,131]. Notably, collaboration emerges as the most effective CMS dimension, significantly fostering stakeholder interactions, operational coordination, and resource efficiency, which is crucial in Jordan’s context characterized by resource scarcity and geopolitical instability [46,64].

The dominance of collaboration in this context can be attributed to its emphasis on building trust and shared understanding, which are pivotal in mitigating the impact of external complexities. Conversely, competitive and avoidance strategies, while potentially beneficial in specific short-term scenarios, often prove to be detrimental when persistent conflicts or responsiveness are required. This suggests that their limited application in the Jordanian food manufacturing sector is an adaptive response to its unique operational and cultural landscape. While collaborative strategies are often favored for their long-term benefits in fostering trust and shared goals, competitive and avoidance strategies exhibit mixed impacts—potentially beneficial in specific short-term scenarios but detrimental when persistent conflicts or responsiveness are required [13,14].

The analysis underscores the relevance of other CMS dimensions, such as accommodation, in sectors with pronounced power asymmetries. Accommodation effectively manages stakeholder relationships, maintains stability, and minimizes conflicts in Jordanian SMEs, where smaller enterprises frequently navigate pressures from dominant stakeholders, including government bodies and major retailers. This highlights a nuanced theoretical contribution to understanding power dynamics in SCM, demonstrating how accommodating approaches preserve relational harmony in contexts where power imbalances exist [49,121].

A key contribution of this review lies in the detailed exploration of SCOP and CCGSCM as a critical mediator. These processes significantly mediate the impact of CMS on SCP. Logistics and inventory management, for instance, are vital for mitigating disruptions due to external challenges, as effective CMS can streamline these operations [27,29,83]. Furthermore, CCGSCM emerged as essential in aligning supply chain practices with evolving customer preferences for sustainability and responsibility, notably amplified post-COVID-19 [99,101]. The increasing emphasis on sustainability and customer centricity in supply chains drives companies to adopt greener practices and enhance their responsiveness to customer needs [132,133]. This mediation highlights a crucial theoretical link between conflict resolution, operational efficiency, and sustainable practices, moving beyond traditional linear models of SCM performance [108]. The integration of technology such as blockchain can further enhance the mediating role of CCGSCM by improving transparency, traceability, and information sharing within the supply chain [86,112].

The comparative analysis between Jordan and developed markets (e.g., UAE, Singapore) identifies disparities in technology adoption, regulatory structures, and CMS formalization. In developed economies, technology-driven, structured conflict resolution mechanisms contrast sharply with Jordan’s informal, relationship-driven practices [41,71,72]. Understanding these differences provides nuanced insights for policymakers and industry leaders, emphasizing the strategic integration of CMS with technology and regulation tailored to Jordan’s specific needs and cultural practices [4,5]. This comparative lens elucidates how contextual factors shape the applicability and effectiveness of various CMS, thereby enriching the theoretical understanding of SCM in diverse global contexts [5,39].

4.1. Linking Conflict Management to Smart and Green Cities and SDGs

Integrating conflict management strategies (CMS) with smart city and green city principles offers significant potential to advance urban sustainability (SDG 11) by enabling efficient resource use, transparency, and collaborative problem solving (SDG 17). In Jordan’s food manufacturing sector, technologies such as blockchain-driven supply chain platforms enhance transparency and operational efficiency, significantly reducing waste and ensuring responsible production (SDG 12).

Table 8. Summary of linking CMS strategies to relevant SDGs and smart city relevance.

CMS Strategy	Smart City Relevance	Relevant SDGs
Collaboration	IoT-enabled transparency and coordination	SDG 9, SDG 11, SDG 17
Accommodation	Technology-driven regulatory compliance	SDG 16, SDG 17
Avoidance	Digital risk monitoring	SDG 9, SDG 12
Compromise	Smart logistics sharing	SDG 11, SDG 17
Competition	Blockchain-driven fair competition	SDG 9, SDG 12

Source: Authors’ compilation and synthesis based on the systematic literature review findings.

explicitly contains a new column linking CMS strategies to relevant SDGs and smart city relevance.

Table 8 summarizes the connections between various conflict management strategies (CMS)—namely collaboration, accommodation, avoidance, compromise, and competition—and their relevance to smart city initiatives, as well as identifying the pertinent sustainable development goals (SDGs) associated with each strategy. For every CMS strategy listed, the table outlines its specific application or implication within a smart city context and lists the corresponding SDGs it supports.

4.2. Theoretical and Practical Implications

This systematic review offers several significant theoretical and practical implications, directly addressing the “so what” query.

Theoretically, this study contributes by integrating diverse theoretical lenses (stakeholder theory [15], conflict management theory [134], social exchange theory [31], resource dependence theory [26], and game theory [32]) into a comprehensive analytical framework. This framework provides significant insights and advancements in understanding complex SCM dynamics, particularly in emerging markets, by moving beyond fragmented analyses to offer a holistic view of conflict resolution’s impact on performance [42,130]. Our synthesis illuminates the intricate interplay between CMS, SCOP, and CCGSCM, providing a robust foundation for future theory building in this underexplored area. We emphasize that CMS is not a monolithic concept but a dynamic interplay shaped by context and mediated by operational and green practices.

Practically, this study offers vital guidance to policymakers and industry leaders in Jordan’s food manufacturing sector and beyond. It highlights the strategic importance of adaptive, collaborative, and customer-centric green practices in supply chain management [99,101]. Managers should prioritize building strong relationships with supply chain partners [125,126], fostering open communication and information sharing [86,135], and judiciously investing in technologies that can improve transparency and traceability [112]. Policymakers can foster a supportive environment by promoting collaboration among stakeholders, incentivizing green initiatives, and investing in infrastructure development to enhance food security and economic growth [92,95].

4.3. Limitations and Future Research

While this study provides robust findings, it acknowledges limitations such as the exclusion of non-English studies and its concentrated focus on Jordan, which may limit immediate generalizability. Future research is recommended to include longitudinal empirical studies [77] to validate the proposed framework and explore the evolution of conflict management practices. Further cross-cultural analyses [95,127], extending beyond the current comparative scope (e.g., to European and North American contexts), are encouraged to generalize these insights more broadly. Additionally, exploring the impact of other contextual factors, such as specific government regulations [92] or broader technological advancements [82,94], on CMS and SCP would provide valuable insights. The exploration of additional moderating variables, such as power dynamics and long-term relationships, could further enrich the understanding of SCM dynamics.

5. Conclusions

This systematic review addresses critical research gaps concerning the interplay between conflict management strategies and supply chain performance in Jordan’s food manufacturing sector. Collaborative CMS strategies significantly enhance SCP by improving efficiency, resilience, and stakeholder satisfaction, which are essential in navigating Jordan’s socio-economic and geopolitical complexities. The mediating role of supply chain operational processes and customer-centric green supply chain management is crucial in transforming conflict management outcomes into practical performance enhancements. This study offers valuable theoretical and practical insights tailored specifically to emerging markets like Jordan, underscoring the necessity for adaptive and context-sensitive approaches to supply chain conflict management.

Theoretically, integrating stakeholder theory, conflict management theory, social exchange theory, resource dependence theory, and game theory into a comprehensive analytical framework provides significant insights and advancements in understanding SCM dynamics. Practically, this study offers vital guidance to policymakers and industry leaders, highlighting the strategic importance of adaptive, collaborative, and customer-centric green practices in supply chain management.

While the study provides robust findings, it acknowledges limitations such as the exclusion of non-English studies and its concentrated focus on Jordan. Future research is recommended to include longitudinal studies, further cross-cultural analyses, and the exploration of additional moderating variables, such as power dynamics and long-term relationships, to generalize these insights more broadly.