Supply Chain Management, Game-Changing Technologies, and Physical Internet: A Systematic Meta-Review of Literature

Abstract

To improve the effectiveness and the sustainability of logistics, the Physical Internet paradigm proposes disruptive solutions. This implies developing an ecosystem of tech-based logistics solutions and supporting methodologies that enable all players in global trade to cooperate. The purpose of this paper is to investigate systematic literature review (SLR) studies to gain detailed insight into how innovative transport technologies, and digitalization initiatives around the Physical Internet development impact supply chains. This paper presents the results of a tertiary study that systematically identified more than twelve thousand articles and selects to review 74 secondary studies on the application of disruptive technologies and the Physical Internet initiative on supply chains from a management perspective. This is complementary to previous reviews, since no one provides a comprehensive and consolidated approach towards the relationship of these three fields. The five-stage systematic review process proposed by Denyer and Tranfield (2009) is followed. As a result, we identify the key activities, knowledge areas and strategies in the supply chain field where the Physical Internet and disruptive technologies interact and are game-changing. Also, we present a conceptual framework that summarises the relationships that exist between relevant disruptive technologies, the physical internet topics, and supply chain key activities. The framework is helpful for researchers and practitioners to find potential technologies to invest in, to assess the potential effects on companies of their implementation, and to support strategic decision-making. The paper concludes with an outlook on future research opportunities from operational, tactical, and strategic perspectives.