E-grocery supply chain innovation and financial inclusion: A framework

Abstract

This paper explores the contextual influences of financial inclusion on e-grocery supply chain innovation. In particular, we explore how diverse financial models spur e-grocery supply chain innovations in a historical apartheid context of South Africa's township and rural communities. The unique context of e-grocery retail companies and the inherited structures of apartheid townships in South Africa present a peculiar context where unfamiliar economic models and prohibited business activities present deep insights into how such markets function. Using the multi-case study approach, eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with grocery retailers that use mobile applications. Data were analyzed using ATLAS.ti. The findings show that bank payment options have not been designed with e-grocery adoption and supply chain innovation in mind. The evidence further shows that the financial inclusion options given specific enablers provide a platform for e-grocery markets to adopt e-business, innovate their business models, subsidize payment infrastructural costs, and minimize e-customers’ transactional trust and privacy concerns. This according to the findings, enables small firms to reach the digitally challenged market, whilst bridging the digital divide.