The Impact of Cold Chain Logistics Risks on Firm Performance: Assessing the Mediating Roles of Data Analytics and Human Factor Capabilities under Environmental Dynamism

Abstract

Thermal integrity as a concept in cold chain logistics is a decisive factor of success in companies dealing with perishable goods, but these companies are experiencing growing operational risks and environmental unpredictability. This study examines how Cold Chain Logistics Risks (CCLRs) affect Firm Performance (FP), in addition to considering the roles of internal capabilities, namely data-driven decision making and workforce training in the context of environmental dynamism. The data was gathered using a quantitative research design, where a structured survey was used to gather empirical data of 105 professionals associated with cold chain companies in Karachi, Lahore, and Sahiwal, Pakistan. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the conceptual framework in SmartPLS software.

The descriptive findings point out to a strongly male dominated workforce (91.42) with a majority of them being at the age bracket of 26-30 years and are primarily working in large sized companies (45%). The structural analysis affirmed the existence of positive important relationships along the hypothesized directions: CCLR has a significant impact on Environmental Dynamism and Internal Capabilities. Most importantly, Internal Capabilities became one of the most effective Firm Performance predictors, which means that the value of the technical and human resilience assets is the main force behind the ROI and market share. These results conclude that operational pressure caused by logistics risks is effective but the strategic implementation of ICT infrastructure and multi-skilled workforce fills the gap amid risk exposure and organizational success. This paper is a roadmap that managers can use to develop strength in unstable markets by investing in technology and human capital.