How Can the Internet of Things Affect Global Supply Chain Management in the 21st Century: A Case Study Based on the Food Grocery Industry and the Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

The global supply chain network in the 21st century is faced with increasing unprecedented uncertainty, such as the unpredictable rage of Covid-19 and the fierce international competition for more efficient and affordable supply chain management. For such reasons, the Internet of Things (IoT), a modern tool in supply chain management, has been used more often. This research examined the application of IoT in the food grocery and manufacturing industries, both of which sustained severe challenges during the rage of Covid-19 and are essential for social and economic development. The findings of this research suggest that IoT is a powerful tool to increase food safety and security in emergencies like Covid-19. IoT also enhances the supply network effectiveness of the food grocery industry by working with e-commerce. In the manufacturing industry, IoT reduces costs and avoids waste in goods transportation. IoT also increased supply chain reliability by tracking the movement of goods and more effective equipment maintenance. However, the findings also reveal that IoT is not flawless, as it bears more risks in terms of data breaches. This should be the future focus for improving IoT’s application in supply chain management.