Evaluation of Factors Influencing the Adoption of Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Iran

Abstract

This study aims to identify and prioritize the factors influencing the adoption of a sustainable and resilient supply chain in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Iran. Considering the vital role of these enterprises in employment and national production, and their high vulnerability to economic and institutional crises, the need to develop a localized framework to enhance sustainability and resilience is strongly felt. Accordingly, through a systematic review of domestic and international literature, thirteen key factors were identified and, after refinement, categorized into six sustainability factors and four resilience factors. To validate and weight these factors, the Fuzzy Delphi method was employed for screening the criteria, and the Fuzzy Best–Worst Method (Fuzzy BWM) was used to calculate the final weights. The findings revealed that resilience holds greater significance than sustainability in Iranian SMEs, and among the factors, strengthening resilience against crises, diversity and flexibility in the supply chain, and transparency and information sharing ranked highest. These results reflect Iran’s high-risk and unstable economic environment, where the survival and rapid recovery of enterprises take precedence over environmental and economic considerations. From a practical perspective, policymakers and managers should promote collaborative networks, implement transparent digital systems, support green technologies, and establish financial and technological incentives to pave the way for SMEs to move toward resilient and sustainable supply chains.