E-Procurement Practices and Business Efficiency in a Selected Retail Business in Taiyuan City, China

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of e-procurement strategies and their impact on business efficiency within a selected retail business. The research evaluates key constructs—supplier relationship management, technology adoption, process automation, cost reduction and savings, and supply chain integration—revealing that these strategies are generally perceived as effectively implemented, with ratings consistently within the "Agree-Implemented" range. Data collected from a diverse group of employees, varying by sex, position, and length of service, indicate that while gender does not significantly affect perceptions, some differences emerge based on organizational role and tenure, particularly in areas such as supplier relationship management and supply chain integration. Furthermore, the assessment of business efficiency—spanning financial, operational, and strategic dimensions—shows that e-procurement initiatives contribute positively to improved profitability, streamlined operations, and strategic alignment. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.311, p = 0.000) between e-procurement practices and overall business efficiency underscores the importance of these strategies in enhancing organizational performance. The findings suggest that although e-procurement is effectively leveraged to boost efficiency, there remain opportunities for further refinement, particularly in integrating supplier management with strategic decision-making. Consequently, the study recommends targeted improvements in employee training, supplier collaboration tools, and continuous system enhancements to maximize the strategic benefits of e-procurement.