Robust Supply Chain Research Articles

Exploring IT-driven supply chain capabilities and resilience: the roles of supply chain risk management and complexity

Purpose In an era where global supply chains are increasingly susceptible to disruptions, this study aims to unlock the potential of IT integration within the supply chain in enhancing supply chain resilience. It investigates how this integration, combined with IT-driven capabilities, acts as a cornerstone in strengthening supply chain resilience (SCRs). The research navigates through the intricate dynamics of supply chain management to chart a strategic pathway for managers, illuminating the investments necessary to cultivate a resilient supply chain. Design/methodology/approach Grounding their investigation within the theoretical lens of dynamic resource-based theory, the authors designed a conceptual model to investigate the relationship between IT integration and SCR. Through the survey responses from supply chain professionals, the authors applied partial least squares-based structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to unravel the complexities of building a resilient supply chain. Findings Their investigation reveals that IT-driven supply chain capabilities (SCCs) are not just beneficial but essential in bridging IT integration with SCR. These capabilities emerge as vital, fully mediating the relationship between IT integration and SCR. Moreover, the significance of robust supply chain risk management (SCRM) in harnessing these IT-driven capabilities to bolster resilience is undeniable, offering organisations a sustainable advantage during times of turbulence. Research limitations/implications The primary limitation of this study is that data collection occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the results may not be representative of different circumstances or periods. This study uncovered several noteworthy findings. The authors found that SCCs fully mediate the relationship between Supply Chain Management IT Integration (SCMITI) and SCR. In addition, the authors found that SCRM positively moderates the relationship between SCMITI and SCCs. The authors observed that Supply Chain Structural Complexity (SCSC) has no significant moderating effect on the relationship between IT-driven SCCs and SCR. Practical implications The results of this study offer managers a clear path forward for investing in SCR. Businesses must invest in SCMITI and SCRM to boost their SCR through developing IT-driven SCCs to ensure consistent business continuity. SCMITI does not necessarily increase SCR resilience when it is done poorly and does not lead to SCCs effectively. In this regard, managers must rely on collective wisdom to determine which technologies and IT applications will best meet their business needs and their peers’ requirements in the supply chain. Originality/value This study sheds light on the mechanisms through which IT enhances SCR. It fills a critical knowledge gap, focusing on the synergy between IT integration, risk management and the cultivation of IT-driven capabilities to navigate supply chain disruptions.

Recent advancements in meat traceability, authenticity verification, and voluntary certification systems

The growing demand for transparency in the food industry has led to significant advancements in meat traceability. Ensuring the authenticity and origin of meat products is critical for consumer trust, public health, and compliance with regulations. This paper reviews recent innovations in meat traceability, with a focus on blockchain technology as a novel approach to ensuring traceability. Additionally, advanced methods for verifying meat authenticity and origin, such as isotope fingerprinting, DNA analysis, and spectroscopic methods, are discussed. The role of voluntary certification schemes in enhancing traceability and authenticity verification in the meat industry is also explored. The findings highlight the importance of integrating cutting-edge technologies and certification schemes to build a robust and transparent meat supply chain.

A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis of Blockchain Technology for Food Security.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) faces obstacles in guaranteeing food security because of its desert climate, restricted arable land, and significant reliance on food imports. Establishing a robust and transparent food supply chain is crucial. This study investigates the crucial functions of blockchain technology in protecting and improving food security in the UAE. Using bibliographic and co-citation network analyses, this study examines 143 research articles that provide a thorough review of the current status of blockchain technology in relation to food security. We examine the interrelationships among studies, highlighting significant themes and identifying three emerging food security patterns in the incorporation of blockchain into the food security domain. This study enhances the understanding of how blockchain technology can transform the food security dimensions of availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability in the UAE and worldwide.

Simulation-based genetic algorithm for optimizing a municipal cooperative waste supply chain in a pandemic

The quantity of medical waste produced by municipalities is on the rise, potentially presenting significant hazards to both the environment and human health. Developing a robust supply chain network for managing municipal medical waste is important for society, especially during a pandemic like COVID-19. In supply chain network design, factors such as the collection of non-infectious waste, transporting infectious waste from hospitals to disposal facilities, revenue generation from waste-to-energy initiatives, and the potential for pandemic outbreaks are often overlooked. Hence, in this study, we design a model incorporating COVID-19 parameters to mitigate the spread of the virus while designing an effective municipal medical waste supply chain network during a pandemic. The proposed model is multi-objective, multi-echelon, multi-commodity and involves coalition-based cooperation. The first objective function aims to minimize total costs, while the second objective pertains to minimizing the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak. We identify optimal collaboration among municipal medical waste collection centers to maximize cost savings. The COVID-19 prevalence risk level by the waste in each zone is calculated pursuant to their inhabitants. Additionally, we analyze a system dynamic simulation framework to forecast waste generation levels amid COVID-19 conditions. A metaheuristic based on the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II is used to solve the problem and is benchmarked against exact solutions. To illustrate our approach, we present a case study focused on Tehran, Iran. The results show that an increase in the amount of generated waste leads to an increase in the total costs of the supply chain.

Review on pharmaceutical supply chain resilience: strategies for managing disruptions and ensuring continuity

The pharmaceutical supply chain is critical to ensuring the availability of life-saving medications and healthcare products. However, it is highly vulnerable to disruptions, including natural disasters, economic and political instabilities, supply chain vulnerabilities, and technological failures. This review explores strategies for enhancing resilience within the pharmaceutical supply chain, focusing on risk management, supplier diversification, inventory management, and the integration of advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and block chain. Case studies, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters like Hurricane Maria, and geopolitical challenges like the US-China trade war, are analyzed to extract valuable lessons and strategies that proved effective in maintaining supply chain continuity. The review also looks ahead to future trends, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation, sustainability, and ethical sourcing in building a more robust and adaptable pharmaceutical supply chain. The findings underscore the need for proactive disruption management, strategic diversification, and sustainable practices to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential healthcare products.

Deep Learning based Robust Food Supply Chain Enabled Effective Management with Blockchain

Deep Learning based Robust Food Supply Chain Enabled Effective Management with Blockchain

Traceability for strengthening supply chain systems and enhancing real-time visibility: Focus of NAFDAC on advancing vaccine traceability in Nigeria

This study explores the successful implementation of activities aimed at scaling traceability for COVID-19 and routine immunization (RI) vaccines to the local government area and selected healthcare facilities in Nigeria, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The study was executed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and sought to enhance supply chain systems by deploying advanced traceability mechanisms and ensuring real-time stock visibility. The article discusses the accomplishments, challenges, and regulatory framework of NAFDAC, emphasizing GS1 technology-driven traceability, and presents the results of the field scanning activities conducted in July 2023. The approach involved a phased public sector pilot, showcasing the feasibility and challenges of tracking vaccine movement through the supply chain. The result shows the detection of 43 unique products across 1022 facilities from a total of 110,113 scans, offering valuable insights into vaccine distributions. The strategic goals of the project aligned with developing safety surveillance systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to facilitate patient access to global health products. Similarly, significant improvement in traceability through automated data capture (barcode scanning) and expanded coverage for COVID-19 and selected RI vaccines in Nigeria was found. Against this background, the information derived from this report will build confidence in patients regarding vaccine authenticity, establish a transparent and robust supply chain, and foster pharmacovigilance capability through integration with the track-and-trace systems. Thus, the study provides invaluable insights and opportunities for global health practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to incorporate track-and-trace into regulatory systems by other national regulatory authorities.

A comprehensive analysis of India’s electric vehicle battery supply chain: barriers and solutions

This study investigates challenges and solutions for India’s battery supply chain in the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Key obstacles include raw material dependency, supply chain complexity, production costs, environmental impacts, rapid technological changes, and skilled workforce shortages. Methods involve reviewing current supply chains, evaluating government policies like the FAME and PLI schemes, and analyzing strategic partnerships with countries rich in lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Results show heavy reliance on imports exposes India to geopolitical risks and price volatility, while a fragmented supply chain hinders coordination and quality control. Establishing gigafactories is crucial but requires substantial investment. The study recommends enhancing domestic production, securing raw materials through exploration and international partnerships, investing in R&D for advanced technologies and alternative chemistries, and developing a skilled workforce through specialized training. Implementing these strategies will ensure a robust and sustainable battery supply chain, supporting EV market growth and positioning India as a leader in electric mobility. Further research should focus on long-term environmental impacts and the economic implications of a localized supply chain.

Integrating Resource-Based Theory and Contingency Theory for Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience in Malaysia: A Post-Pandemic Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted global supply chains, exposed their vulnerabilities and underscored the urgent need for enhanced resilience. In Malaysia, the pandemic's impact on supply chains has been profound, prompting a re-evaluation of existing strategies and frameworks. This study explores the integration of Resource-Based Theory (RBT) and Contingency Theory (CT) to enhance supply chain resilience in Malaysia. Through in-depth case studies and semi-structured interviews with senior managers and supply chain professionals, this research identifies key factors contributing to the successful implementation of an integrated resilience framework. The findings reveal that firms leveraging advanced technology, skilled workforce, and strategic partnerships can maintain operational efficiency and adaptability. Context-specific strategies such as diversifying suppliers, local sourcing, strategic stockpiling, and flexible logistics solutions are essential in responding to disruptions. Common challenges include high initial costs, coordination issues, regulatory hurdles, and cultural resistance to change. The integration of RBT and CT results in improved supply chain visibility, flexibility, robustness, and stakeholder collaboration. This study contributes to the academic discourse by offering practical insights for firms seeking to enhance supply chain resilience. It underscores the importance of combining internal strengths with adaptive strategies tailored to the external environment. The findings provide valuable guidance for both academia and industry in developing more robust and adaptive supply chain strategies in the post-pandemic landscape. Future research should explore the integration of RBT and CT across different contexts and industries and investigate the role of emerging technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience.

From waste to advanced resource: Techno-economic and life cycle assessment behind the integration of polyester recycling and glucose production to valorize fast fashion garments

This work demonstrates the technical, economic, and environmental viability of integrating enzymatic hydrolysis, mechanical refining, and total chlorine-free (TCF) bleaching processes for industrial-scale production of glucose from textile waste. The process features an innovative mechanical refining pretreatment coupled with TCF oxidation of dyes to achieve over 90% improvement in enzymatic hydrolysis yields of cotton textile waste while also promoting the purification and recycling of synthetic fibers. A comprehensive techno-economic analysis was performed based on a 14,000 bone dry tons (BD tons) annual glucose production line, utilizing both 100% cotton and cotton/polyester blends, which reveals capital investments ranging from USD 5.6 to 7.9 million, with manufacturing costs per ton of glucose varying between USD 215 and USD 475, depending on the textile blend used. The cotton/polyester 50/50 blend scenario had the lowest minimum selling price (USD 290 per ton of glucose) due to the revenue from the unhydrolyzed synthetic fibers, which are a valuable and key co-product. A sensitivity analysis highlights the significant influence of recycled polyester content and market prices on the economics. Additionally, a life cycle assessment was performed to compare the carbon footprint of the four scenarios. In contrast to other existing pretreatments that can contribute to up to 70% of the emissions in enzymatic hydrolysis of textiles, the mechanical refining pretreatment can contribute as low as 10% of the total emissions in the process proposed in this work. Even when certain challenges remain, such as the development of a robust supply chain model, the conversion pathway shown in this work for upcycling cotton textile waste into value-added chemicals represents a promising opportunity to combat textile landfilling and foster the circular economy within the industry.

Toward a sustainable future: integrating circular economy in the digitally advanced supply chain

PurposeStringent environmental regulations and the need for a robust supply chain (SC) network have necessitated organizations to adopt circular economy (CE) practices. With proven impact of CE practices on SC activities, digital technologies are prompting organizations to digitalize SC networks. Yet, the correlation between SC digitalization and CE practices has been less examined. This study aims to identify and evaluate, the critical success factors (CSFs) necessitating SC digitalization and strategies helping in SC digitalization.Design/methodology/approachAn extensive literature review was performed to identify CSFs and strategies for SC 4.0 (SC4.0), and for finalization, experts’ input was obtained with the Delphi approach. An integrated Fermatean fuzzy set – analytic hierarchy process – decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory – combined compromise solution technique was used to evaluate CSFs and strategies.FindingsSmart work environment, performance monitoring and data reliability and relevance were identified as the top three important CSFs for SC digitalization. Enhancement of analytical capability, data-driven process optimization and development of an integrated digital platform were identified as potential SC4.0 transition strategies.Practical implicationsThis study helps SC practitioners better understand the CSFs and strategies for the SC4.0 transition. Furthermore, this study explores the integration of CE principles within these digital strategies, emphasizing how sustainability practices can be embedded in the SC4.0 framework to foster a more resilient and environmentally conscious electronics SC in India.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work is the first to analyze CSFs for SC4.0 in the Indian electronics industry.

Sourcing renewable energy components: building resilient supply chains, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, and enhancing energy security

The transition to renewable energy is essential for mitigating climate change and ensuring long-term energy security. As global demand for renewable energy technologies grows, establishing resilient supply chains becomes crucial. This paper examines strategies to build robust supply chains, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and enhance energy security. A major challenge in renewable energy is the dependence on a limited number of international suppliers, which risks supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, or natural disasters. Diversifying suppliers can mitigate these risks by encouraging alternative suppliers and fostering competition (Smith, 2020). Local manufacturing is another critical strategy, promoting supply chain resilience, economic growth, and job creation. Countries like the United States and Germany have incentivized local manufacturing of solar panels and wind turbine components (Jones, 2021), ensuring a steady supply of parts and aligning with broader industrial policies. Maintaining strategic reserves of critical materials, such as rare earth elements and lithium, is essential for buffering against supply disruptions and price volatility, ensuring continuous production of renewable energy technologies (Brown, 2019). Strategic planning and investment in reserves are vital for a comprehensive energy security strategy. Technological innovation enhances supply chain resilience. Advances in materials science, manufacturing processes, and recycling technologies can reduce dependence on scarce materials and improve renewable energy system efficiency. Developing alternative materials for battery storage, for example, can reduce reliance on lithium and cobalt sourced from unstable regions (White, 2022). Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are crucial for advancing the renewable energy sector. By leveraging both sectors' strengths, PPPs can accelerate technology deployment, improve infrastructure, and foster innovation. Successful examples include government-private collaborations on offshore wind farms and smart grid technologies (Green & Associates, 2021). Favorable trade policies facilitate the global exchange of renewable energy technologies and components. Reducing tariffs, streamlining customs, and fostering international cooperation can enhance supply chain efficiency and reliability (Lee, 2020). This study advocates for trade agreements tailored to the renewable energy sector's needs. Integrated energy systems and smart grid technologies optimize renewable energy use and distribution. Advanced monitoring and control systems improve grid stability, reduce energy waste, and enhance renewable source integration (Adams, 2019). Investment in smart grid infrastructure is crucial for a resilient energy strategy. Robust policy frameworks are necessary to support these initiatives. Governments must enact policies providing clear guidance, incentives, and support for resilient renewable energy supply chains, including ambitious renewable energy targets, financial incentives for R&D, and regulatory stability (Martinez, 2021).

IMPACT OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN IN GHANA'S PHARMACEUTICAL SECTOR ON UPSTREAM PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

Purposes: In today's business landscape, success isn't solely reliant on financial goals. Adapting to the global economy is crucial for a company's viability. Stakeholders prioritize business sustainability, evident in empirical studies exploring sustainable supply chain management theories in the sector. The study aimed to assess how Sustainable Supply Chain in Ghana's Pharmaceutical Sector influences firm performance within the upstream industry. Method: The study was conducted in the accessible southern part of Ghana, known for its concentration of pharmaceutical companies. Specifically, individuals involved in procurement and supply chain activities within these companies were selected for inclusion in the study. The study used quantitative methods to explore Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) in the upstream pharmaceutical industry. Out of 2000, 210 managers were randomly sampled, and SPSS Version 26 was employed for structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis. Results and Conclusion: The study found that there was a significant relationship between SSCM and supply chain performance (SSCMP). Besides, the study found moderation impact between Top Management Commitment (TMC) and SSCM and SSCMP respectively. Pharmaceutical companies should not solely focus on economic performance; rather, strategic efforts and policies must prioritize sustainability. Top management commitment is crucial for enhancing supply chain performance. Their dedication ensures the integration of Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) with strategic objectives, embedding sustainability across the entire supply chain, from procurement to distribution. Research Implication: Top management should drive sustainability strategy, integrating it into operations and fostering a culture of sustainability for robust Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the pharmaceutical upstream sector. Originality/Value: the study leverages on the theoretical understanding of upper echelon theory to provide empirical evidence on the impact of top management commitments on performance of supply chain which hitherto has been scarcely deployed in recent years.

Multilevel determinants of antiretroviral therapy initiation and retention in the test-and-treat era of Nepal: a qualitative study

BackgroundThe transition to the “test-and-treat” policy in Nepal in 2017, coupled with the rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 2020, necessitates an in-depth understanding of factors influencing ART initiation and retention. This study investigates these factors from the perspectives of healthcare providers, families/communities, and people living with HIV (PLHIV).MethodsEmploying a qualitative design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 ART clients and 26 healthcare providers across different provinces of Nepal. A comprehensive interview guide facilitated the exploration of experiences and perceptions. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was applied to distill key insights. Guided by a socio-ecological model, interviews were analyzed to identify the barriers and facilitators to ART initiation and continuation at the individual, family/community, and health system levels.ResultsFacilitators and barriers were identified at three levels. Individual-level facilitators included fear of death, perceived health benefits, knowledge about HIV/ART, confidentiality, and financial support. Barriers encompassed concerns about lifelong medication, side effects, denial of HIV status, fear of disclosure, and financial constraints. At the family/community level, support from family and community health workers facilitated ART adherence, while social stigma and discrimination posed barriers. The health system’s role was dual; the provision of free treatment, a client tracking system and a robust drug supply chain were facilitators, whereas logistical challenges and service accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic were notable barriers.ConclusionsThis study highlights the various factors that influence ART initiation and retention in Nepal during the test-and-treat era. Tailored interventions should focus on increasing awareness about HIV and ART, strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring availability of medications, and providing accessible treatment during service disruptions. Furthermore, these interventions should encourage supportive environments at the individual, community, and healthcare system levels. Taking this holistic approach is essential for effectively implementing ART and achieving long-term health outcomes in light of changing public health policies.

(Invited) Challenges and Successes of an Industrial Start-up to Global Electrolyzer Company

Hydrogen generation via electrolysis has gained much attention internationally as not only a sustainable source of fuel for the transportation, but as a carrier of energy to capture stranded renewable energy due to the carbon-free chemical cycle and response characteristics of the technology. The barrier to entry preventing this technology from being widely adopted is the overall cost associated with both the upfront capital expense as well as the operating cost incurred over the product life. The majority of this cost is driven by 1) low electrical efficiencies due to the high ohmic resistance of thicker membranes required by electrolysis systems to electrochemically compress generated hydrogen for storage and the overpotential associated with the water splitting oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts typically used, 2) high cost of system and cell stack materials, which need to be durable for up to 100,000hrs at potentials approaching 2V in both reducing and oxidizing environments, and 3) the lack of a robust supply chain for high volume manufacturing to further drive down cost through economies of scale.Nel Hydrogen has worked to commercialize this technology, originally developed for aerospace and miliary applications where cost and efficiency were not the drivers. Since the founding of Proton Energy Systems in 1996 and to the present as Nel Hydrogen we have worked to address these problem areas in an attempt to develop products that can serve cost sensitive markets, such as energy capture and storage. During this talk, I will look back on the challenges we faced as an industrial start-up dealing with uninterested suppliers, creating relationships, and establishing partnerships, all while developing our first 28cm2 products to the point today, where we are producing and siting multi-MW systems.

Robust policy frameworks for strengthening the resilience and sustainability of agri-food global value chains

Agri-food global value chains (GVCs) have transformed food production and trade, fostering efficiency and specialization across international borders and also introducing new challenges. This paper synthesizes insights from a special issue focused on agri-food GVCs, addressing four critical areas essential for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of these chains. We explore how trade connections and specialization can drive economic growth, emphasizing the importance of GVC integration. We also examine the role of transportation and infrastructure in ensuring global trade efficiency, highlighting the need for strategic investments to support robust supply chains. Additionally, we assess the impact of trade policies on sustainability, market disruptions, and overall efficiency, underscoring the importance of regulatory frameworks that promote both economic and environmental goals. Finally, we consider the implications of domestic and trade policies on welfare and equity, particularly in developing regions where inclusive growth remains a pressing concern. By identifying these essential areas for robust policy frameworks, this paper provides actionable insights for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of the global food system, which can inform policies that enhance the benefits of agri-food GVC integration while mitigating their risks.

Utility of 3D printing in ship repairs

With a growing focus on Sustainable Development Goals 2030, sustainability has become crucial in the shipping industry. Disruptive technologies like 3D printing can reduce manufacturing and operating costs, ensuring a robust spare supply chain for ships and offshore platforms. This technology can manufacture complex shapes, aiding in repairs and maintenance without requiring extensive cutting and welding. However, the unique and non-repetitive nature of ship repairs has hindered automation in this sector. This paper examines the utility of 3D printing in ship repairs, aiming to reduce repair costs and time while enhancing sustainability. The study shows that numerous advantages exist in using this technology in the shipping industry. However, its usage needs to be facilitated with adequate public awareness, preparation of procedures for manufacturing 3D printed parts, and standardization of 3D printers. Highlights Sustainability has become an important aspect in the shipping industry Disruptive technologies like 3-D printing can help achieve the desired sustainability Use of 3D printers for ship repairs can improve availability of ships Use of 3D printing for ship spares requires manufacturing procedures to be specified by the classification societies

Conceptual foundations of Tech-Driven logistics and supply chain management for economic competitiveness in the United Kingdom

The concept paper explores the transformative potential of technology in enhancing the logistics and supply chain sector to bolster the UK's economic competitiveness. This executive summary highlights the paper's primary objectives, theoretical frameworks, and anticipated outcomes, focusing on the integration of advanced technologies to streamline supply chain operations and drive economic growth. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding how technology can be leveraged to optimize logistics and supply chain management in the UK. It underscores the importance of a robust and efficient supply chain as a cornerstone of economic competitiveness, enabling businesses to reduce costs, improve delivery times, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Central to this paper is the exploration of various technological innovations that can revolutionize supply chain management. It discusses the impact of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and big data analytics on the logistics sector. These technologies enable real-time tracking, predictive analytics, enhanced transparency, and improved decision-making processes, which are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the global market. The paper delves into theoretical models and frameworks that support the integration of technology into supply chain management. It examines concepts such as the Digital Supply Chain (DSC) model, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of digital technologies in creating a seamless supply chain network. Additionally, the paper explores the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model, which provides a structured approach to measuring and improving supply chain performance through technology-driven metrics and best practices. Addressing the practical challenges of implementing tech-driven logistics, the paper highlights issues such as cybersecurity risks, high initial investment costs, and the need for skilled labor. It proposes solutions like fostering public-private partnerships, investing in cybersecurity measures, and developing training programs to build a tech-savvy workforce capable of managing advanced supply chain systems. The expected outcomes of tech-driven logistics and supply chain management include increased operational efficiency, reduced operational costs, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced agility in responding to market changes. These improvements can significantly contribute to the UK's economic competitiveness, positioning it as a leader in the global supply chain landscape. The paper provides a strategic roadmap for integrating advanced technologies into the logistics sector. By leveraging these technologies, the UK can enhance its supply chain efficiency, drive economic growth, and maintain a competitive advantage in the global economy. The paper calls for concerted efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, and academia to foster an environment conducive to technological innovation and supply chain excellence. Keywords: Logistic, Supply Chain, Technology, Cyber Security, UK.

Social interactions among ants are impacted by food availability and group size.

Social interactions are important for how societies function, conferring robustness and resilience to environmental changes. The structure of social interactions can shape the dynamics of information and goods transmission. In addition, the availability and types of resources that are transferred might impact the structure of interaction networks. For example, storable resources might reduce the required speed of distribution and altering interaction structure can facilitate such change. Here, we use Camponotus fragilis ants as a model system to examine how social interactions are impacted by group size, food availability, and food type. We compare global- and individual-level network measures across experiments in which groups of different sizes received limited or unlimited food that is either favorable and cannot be stored (carbohydrates), or unfavorable but with a potential of being stored (protein). We found that in larger groups, individuals interacted with more social partners and connected more individuals, and interaction networks became more compartmentalized. Furthermore, the number of individuals that ants interacted with and the distance they traveled both increased when food was limited compared to when it was unlimited. Our findings highlight how biological systems can adjust their interaction networks in ways that relate to their function. The study of such biological flexibility can inspire novel and important solutions to the design of robust and resilient supply chains.

AI-Driven Innovations in Food and Beverage Service: A Roadmap to Future Hospitality

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly revolutionizing the food and beverage service industry by offering innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and personalize customer experiences. This abstract explores the transformative impact of AI technologies such as machine learning, predictive analytics, and robotics on various aspects of hospitality operations. AI-driven automation streamlines kitchen processes, optimizes inventory management, and reduces operational costs, thereby improving service consistency and profitability (Alsmadi et al., 2020; Li et al., 2021).AI facilitates personalized client interactions by analyzing vast datasets to understand individual preferences, dietary restrictions, and purchasing behaviors. This capability empowers establishments to offer tailored menu recommendations, personalized promotions, and interactive dining experiences that cater to diverse consumer needs (Chen et al., 2019; Huang et al., 2020). AI's integration into the food and beverage service industry significantly enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty while concurrently boosting revenue through targeted marketing and operational efficiencies. By leveraging AI technologies such as machine learning and predictive analytics, establishments can tailor offerings to meet individual preferences and anticipate consumer behavior, thereby fostering stronger customer relationships. Moreover, the future trajectory of AI in this sector foresees advancements in IoT integration, AR applications, and blockchain technology. These innovations are set to further transform operations by optimizing efficiency, enriching customer interactions, and ensuring robust supply chain transparency. IoT devices, for instance, will facilitate real-time data collection and analysis, thereby enhancing inventory management precision and optimizing resource allocation to meet demand fluctuations effectively. AR applications will offer immersive dining experiences, allowing customers to interact with digital menus or view culinary presentations. Blockchain technology will enhance transparency and traceability, ensuring food safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Together, these innovations will enable food and beverage establishments to innovate and differentiate themselves in a competitive market landscape, ultimately shaping the future of dining experiences worldwide to further optimize operations and enhance transparency in supply chain management (Jiang et al., 2023; Wang et al., 2023).