Role of project management on Sustainable Supply Chain development through Industry 4.0 technologies and Circular Economy during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multiple case study of Thai metals industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has widely disrupted manufacturing industries. This research focuses on how project management, Industry 4.0 technologies, and the Circular Economy contribute to Sustainable Supply Chain development during the pandemic. A multiple case study focusing on three companies in the metals industry, covering small-, medium-, and large-size companies from Thailand, is adopted to investigate the impact of the pandemic on companies using the dimensions of demand, production, and distribution disruptions. The result shows that project management supports Industry 4.0 technologies and Circular Economy adoption. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic also expedites Industry 4.0 technologies adoption. Product customization is one of the key focuses of the companies to differentiate from the competitors and create long-term competitive advantages. Industry 4.0 technologies and the Circular Economy have a positive influence on Sustainable Supply Chain development.