Impact of Total Quality Management and Agile Manufacturing on Performance in the Apparel Industry: A Moderating Role of Higher Management Commitment

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Total Quality Management (TQM) and Agile Manufacturing (AM) on the performance of apparel mills, while also exploring the moderating role of Higher Management Commitment (HMC). The goal is to assess whether TQM and AM enhance mill performance and whether HMC amplifies these effects. The research adopts a quantitative approach using data from 104 respondents across various apparel mills in Karachi, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire was employed, measuring TQM, AM, Operational Safety (OS), Training, and HMC using a 5-point Likert scale. Regression and correlation analyses were conducted to evaluate relationships between the variables. The results indicate that both TQM and AM have significant positive effects on apparel mill performance, with training also showing a strong correlation. However, OS did not demonstrate a significant impact. Furthermore, HMC significantly moderates the relationship between TQM and training on mill performance but does not moderate the relationship between AM and OS. The findings suggest that managers in the apparel industry should focus on implementing TQM and AM to enhance performance, while also fostering strong managerial commitment to maximize these benefits. This study contributes to the existing literature by integrating TQM, AM, and HMC, providing a comprehensive understanding of their effects on apparel mill performance