Abstract:
This study examined the effect of sourcing procedures on the export performance of selected
coffee export private limited companies (PLCs) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It specifically
investigated the effects of supplier selection and evaluation, quality control procedures, supplier
relationship management, and logistics and storage practices on export performance. An
explanatory research design with a quantitative approach was employed. The study used
primary data collected through structured questionnaires from employees and managers of
selected coffee export PLCs. A two-stage simple random sampling technique was applied to
select firms and respondents, and the final sample consisted of 367 valid responses. Data were
analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis. The findings
revealed that all four sourcing procedures have a statistically significant and positive effect on
export performance (p < 0.001). Quality control procedures emerged as the strongest predictor
(β = 0.523), followed by supplier selection and evaluation (β = 0.278), supplier relationship
management (β = 0.133), and logistics and storage practices (β = 0.113), indicating that
effective sourcing management significantly enhances export performance. Based on the
findings, the study recommends that coffee export firms strengthen internal quality control
systems through certified Q-graders and standardized cupping procedures, adopt structured
supplier evaluation checklists to improve procurement decisions, establish long term contractual
relationships with suppliers supported by technical assistance and pre financing, and improve
logistics and storage systems through better packaging, moisture control, and shipment
monitoring. Overall, the study concludes that integrated sourcing practices collectively
determine export performance rather than any single factor alone.