The Influence of Fair Business Practices on Supply Chain Sustainability: A Study of Selected Petroleum Retail Outlets in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

The integration of ethical business practices into supply chain operations is increasingly viewed as essential, particularly in industries with significant environmental and social impact. This study investigates the relationship between fair business practices and supply chain sustainability within selected petroleum retail outlets in Ibadan, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey design, the study targeted staff from selected petroleum retail outlets, with a total of 88 respondents selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire focused on fairness indicators and sustainability measures, and analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. Instrument validity was ensured through expert review and pilot testing, while internal consistency was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha. The results reveal a statistically significant and positive correlation between fair business practices and supply chain sustainability (R = 0.592**, p < 0.01), suggesting that transparency, accountability, and equity contribute meaningfully to the resilience and efficiency of supply chain systems. The findings affirm the value of ethical conduct in operational success and align with existing literature advocating for ethics as a strategic resource. Based on these insights, the study recommends embedding fair practices into corporate strategies and calls for regulatory support to promote ethical standards, thereby enhancing long-term sustainability within the petroleum distribution sector.