The effect of lean and agile operations strategy on improving order-winners: Empirical evidence from the UAE food service industry

This research aims to assess the impact of lean and agile operational strategies on improving order winners in the food service industry in the UAE. Research disclosed a few attributes with a dimensional review of lean and agile strategies that enhance strategic alignment in the food service industry of UAE to achieve the maximum benefits that have never been identified in research before. Data from 85 Sharjah-based food service companies were used for the analysis. A quantitative method with descriptive, causal and exploratory research design was used, along with convenient cluster sampling. A valid sample size of 255 respondents was used to assess the model through regression and ANOVA using SPSS. Research findings show a significant direct impact of lean strategies on order winners, and agile strategies significantly positively impact order winners. In contrast, both variables have a significant direct impact on order winners. This research is limited to assessing the impact of lean and agile strategies to achieve maximum order winners. Future research should consider a manufacturing industry to increase generalizability and a comprehensive focus on the lean and agile dimensional impact on competitive advantage. Customer loyalty and satisfaction lead a business toward order winners. An exemplary implementation of lean and agile strategies can translate into high business performance.