Strategic Positioning and Sustainable Competitive Advantage at Postal Corporation of Kenya, Nairobi City County
RODA MUTHONI NYAMAI *
Department of Business Administration, School of Business, Economics and Tourism, Kenyatta University, Kenya.
Lucy Kavindah
Department of Business Administration, School of Business, Economics and Tourism, Kenyatta University, Kenya.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK) operates in a dynamic environment influenced by technological change, shifting consumer needs, and global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. PCK faces multiple challenges including a decline in traditional mail usage, financial limitations hindering infrastructure upgrades, obsolete systems, regulatory issues, and workforce attrition. This study evaluated how strategic positioning strategies impact PCK’s sustainable competitive advantage in Nairobi City County, with a focus on ICT adoption, e-commerce integration, and hybrid work models. The research was guided by several theoretical frameworks: Competitive Advantage Theory, Resource-Based View, Flexible Firm Model, and Technology Acceptance Model. Using a descriptive design, the study targeted 61 managerial staff members at the PCK head office, utilizing a census sampling approach due to the small population size. Data was collected through online and offline questionnaires, validated through pilot testing and reliability checks, including Cronbach's Alpha. Analysis employed both descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression methods. Findings revealed that strategic positioning significantly contributes to PCK's competitive edge. Specifically, ICT adoption improves operational efficiency, e-commerce expands market access, and hybrid work models enhance productivity and cost control. Despite these benefits, PCK still faces challenges in fully embracing e-commerce. The study concludes that embracing digital transformation is essential for sustainability. It recommends further investment in ICT infrastructure, development of e-commerce capabilities, adoption of digital payment systems, and refinement of hybrid work strategies. These actions are vital for strengthening competitiveness and ensuring long-term organizational relevance in the digital era.
Keywords: Strategic positioning, ICT adoption, e-commerce, hybrid work, competitive advantage, postal corporation of kenya, digital transformation