Supply Chain Transparency Research Articles

Enhancing HIV/AIDS and TB medication logistics: A comprehensive approach to global healthcare distribution

The distribution of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) medications is critical to the success of global healthcare initiatives, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure and resources. This review examines the logistical challenges hindering the efficient delivery of these life-saving medications, including supply chain inefficiencies, poor infrastructure, and geographical barriers. It also explores innovative approaches to optimizing logistics, such as the use of blockchain, drones, and artificial intelligence (AI), alongside public-private partnerships (PPPs) and supportive policy frameworks. These emerging technologies have the potential to enhance the availability and effectiveness of HIV/AIDS and TB treatments by improving supply chain transparency, reducing stockouts, and overcoming transportation challenges in remote areas. The paper further assesses the impact of these logistical improvements on healthcare outcomes, demonstrating how they contribute to improved patient adherence, reduced disease transmission, and cost savings. Finally, recommendations are provided for policymakers, healthcare organizations, and stakeholders to adopt these innovations, and future research directions are proposed to expand these models to other medications and diseases.

Digital Disruption in Indian Retail: Trends, Opportunities, And Challenges

This research paper examines the significant growth and transformation of the Indian Retail Industry, now ranked as the fifth-largest globally. This expansion is driven by rising incomes, shifting middle-class lifestyles, and improved digital connectivity. In this competitive environment, Indian consumers increasingly demand personalized and exceptional services. Digital transformation is identified as a key success factor, enabling retailers to adapt to changing customer behaviors. The surge in online shopping, propelled by smartphone usage, has reshaped the consumer-retailer dynamic, necessitating robust online presences and investments in data analytics for better customer insights. Transparency in supply chains and real-time inventory management have become essential for effective retail operations. The paper highlights key digital transformation trends, such as digitized in-store experiences and workforce empowerment, while acknowledging challenges like change management, skill shortages, and data security risks. Retailers are advised to implement change management strategies, develop talent acquisition plans, and invest in cybersecurity to ensure sustainable growth.

The effects of global product design on supply chain efficiency and natural resources management

The significance of global product design as a primary factor in determining supply chain efficiency and natural resource management. This study examines the impact of global product design changes on process and supply chain practices. Specifically, it seeks to understand in promoting sustainable practices across global supply chains. This study, utilizes the fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) methods to evaluate the criteria, sub-criteria, and various significant opportunities influencing sustainable product design and supply chain management. The fuzzy AHP method is used to assess the key criteria and their respective sub-criteria. The fuzzy TOPSIS method is used to rank the opportunities in driving sustainable practices across global supply chains. The results of fuzzy AHP show that innovation and product differentiation (C4), economic viability (C1), and supply chain efficiency (C5) are the crucial criteria. While the results of fuzzy TOPSIS present that supply chain transparency (O2) is the most suitable opportunity, followed by circular economy practices (O1) and policy advocacy and compliance (O6) in adopting global product design on supply chain efficiency and natural resources management. Thus, this study is highly relevant to the governments, industry specialists, and policymakers who aim at enhancing the dynamic business environment and sustainable development.

Global Supply Chain Information Sharing Platforms: Challenges, Opportunities, and Trends

With the deepening process of globalization, the rapid development of information technology and the diversification of logistics methods, supply chain management faces increasingly complex challenges. This study explores the future development trends, challenges and opportunities of information sharing platforms in global supply chains. In global supply chains, information sharing platforms are of great significance. It facilitates real-time data exchange and collaboration among supply chain segments and help improve supply chain transparency, flexibility and efficiency. However, global supply chain information sharing faces many challenges, including problems in information security, technical standards, cultural differences, and laws and regulations. In response to these challenges, this paper proposes future directions for developing a global supply chain information sharing platform, including digitization, automation, cross-platform cross-border collaboration, data security and privacy protection, application of new technologies, and flexibility and adaptability. This study provides useful insights and guidance for future global supply chain management by exploring the global supply chain information sharing platform.

Marketing-Driven Supply Chain Innovation: A Framework for FMCG SME Sustainability

In an increasingly competitive and sustainability-conscious market, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector face unique challenges in achieving long-term sustainability. This review explores the concept of marketing-driven supply chain innovation as a strategic framework for enhancing SME sustainability. By integrating consumer-centric marketing strategies with supply chain operations, SMEs can align their product offerings, sourcing practices, and logistics with growing consumer demand for environmentally and socially responsible products. The framework outlined in this study includes key components such as sustainable product design, green logistics, ethical sourcing, and the incorporation of circular economy principles. Additionally, technology-driven innovation, such as data analytics and digital platforms, is emphasized as a tool to improve supply chain transparency, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization. Through these collaborative efforts, SMEs can foster stronger consumer trust, enhance brand loyalty, and build a competitive edge in the market. Despite the potential benefits, the review also discusses the challenges SMEs may face, including limited financial resources, resistance to organizational change, and balancing profitability with sustainability goals. However, by leveraging green financing options, cross-sector partnerships, and phased implementation strategies, SMEs can overcome these barriers. Ultimately, the integration of marketing-driven supply chain innovation is positioned as a critical path for FMCG SMEs to achieve long-term sustainability, profitability, and market competitiveness in an evolving global economy. Keywords: Marketing-Driven, Supply Chain, FMCG SME, Review.

Emerging Trends in Sustainability Practices Within the FMCG Sector for A Better Future

The Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector is undergoing a major transformation driven by increasing demands for sustainability. This article explores emerging sustainability trends, such as sustainable packaging, circular economy models, supply chain transparency, consumer engagement, and innovative product development. These practices not only mitigate environmental impact but also enhance business competitiveness and brand loyalty. By highlighting how leading FMCG companies are incorporating these trends, the article aims to inspire broader adoption of sustainable strategies that benefit both businesses and the environment.

Optimizing Supply Chain Transparency and Customer Compatibility with AI-Driven Models

As global supply chains become increasingly complex, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has emerged as a critical strategy for enhancing operational transparency and improving customer compatibility. This study investigates the application of AI-driven models in optimizing supply chain performance, focusing on predictive analytics, real-time data integration, and customer-centric personalization. A comprehensive experimental framework was employed, evaluating five distinct AI configurations against four key performance criteria: operational transparency, customer compatibility, cost efficiency, and delivery performance. Results demonstrated that the Real-Time Data Integration Model achieved a 20% improvement in operational transparency, allowing for enhanced visibility into inventory management and more agile responses to dynamic demand fluctuations. Additionally, the Customer-Centric Personalization Model increased customer satisfaction by 10%, emphasizing the critical role of tailored service delivery in modern supply chain management. The Cost Optimization Model yielded significant cost reductions, improving cost efficiency by 18%, though it showed a marginal decrease in customer compatibility. The findings highlight the trade-offs between cost efficiency and customer-centric strategies, suggesting that a balance is required to achieve a well-rounded and sustainable supply chain model. This research underscores the transformative potential of AI in driving efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Future work should explore the integration of advanced technologies such as 5G and further investigate scalable AI solutions capable of addressing the evolving challenges faced by global supply chains.

The Influence of R&D Intensity on Supply Chain Transparency: Evidence From the Disclosure Substitution Perspective

ABSTRACTThis paper shows that the existence of disclosure‐related costs and benefits explains the influence of R&D intensity on supply chain transparency. We find that R&D‐active firms are more likely to redact supply chain identities but disclose supply chain distribution as a substitution. The effect of withholding (disclosing) the specific identities (distribution) of supply chain is more (less) pronounced when firms are in higher competitive industries or non–state‐owned enterprises. Our study provides evidence of disclosure substitution behavior in a unified voluntary setting of supply chain transparency and shows that partial disclosure of nonproprietary information may be optimal.

AI and Blockchain Integration in Business Aviation: Securing Supply Chain and Enhancing Traceability

Purpose: The research looks at how AI converges with the blockchain technology in business aviation to better the domains considered most important: maintenance, operations, flight optimization, and observation of regulatory standards. This is aimed at understanding how these technologies bring solutions that will mitigate the specific challenges to aviation related to the security of supply chains, fraud detection, and customer experience improvement. Methodology: The research adopts a qualitative and quantitative approach, reviewing case studies from leading aviation companies such as Airbus and Boeing, alongside real-world data analysis. The integration of AI for predictive maintenance, flight optimization, and in-flight entertainment (IFE) was examined, while blockchain’s role in securing data management, regulatory compliance, and fraud prevention was assessed through documented applications and industry reports. Findings: The identification of predictive maintenance, as ensured through AI, optimizes aircraft performance, having reduced downtime. Moreover, blockchain increases supply chain transparency and security, reduces fraud, and ensures immutable records. On top of that, AI-powered flight planning and in-flight operations significantly help in operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Moreover, blockchain helps in compliance with regulations because of its secured and traceable data; hence, it serves as a very viable tool in aviation operations. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This research contributes to the theory of AI and blockchain integration by presenting a comprehensive framework for their application in aviation. It provides new insights into how AI and blockchain can not only enhance operational efficiency but also address fraud and compliance issues, which are pivotal for policy development. Practically, it offers aviation companies a roadmap for leveraging these technologies to secure their supply chains, optimize operations, and enhance customer experiences, ultimately advancing the entire industry.

Revolutionizing Inventory Management: The Role of Data Mining in Industry 4.0

In the era of Industry 4.0, with the rapid development and application of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the manufacturing industry is undergoing unprecedented changes. In this context, data mining technology has become integral to inventory management practices in all industries. This study examines the profound impact of data mining on inventory management efficiency. By leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms, data mining enables organizations to accurately forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and improve supply chain transparency. Through real-world case studies and comprehensive analysis, this research highlights how data mining techniques, such as central object-based clustering algorithms, can be successfully applied to optimize material classification, warehouse space utilization and operational efficiency. In addition, this study explores the broader applications of data mining beyond inventory management, including marketing, financial risk management, healthcare, transportation, social media, and cybersecurity. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how data mining can reshape inventory management practices and drive business growth in the digital age.

Blockchain-enabled traceability systems for supply chain quality management: empirical insights from pharmaceutical manufacturers

PurposeThe emergence of blockchain technology has the potential to bring about transformative changes in various industries, with supply chain management being a prominent domain of application. This study investigates the strategic performance benefits of using blockchain-enabled traceability systems for improving supply chain quality management.Design/methodology/approachThe present study employed structural equation modelling to analyse data obtained from 200 practitioners working in Indian pharmaceutical companies.FindingsThe results reflect that blockchain-enabled traceability systems have a positive impact on multi-tier quality governance (MQG); supply chain process alignment and coordination (SPAC) and quality centric collaboration (QCC); all of which are the facets of supply chain quality management. Furthermore, when examining the impact of blockchain-enabled traceability systems on firm quality performance and economic performance, the mediation role of SPAC and QCC was confirmed, whereas the mediation role of MQG could not be established.Practical implicationsThe study’s empirical insights offer practical guidance for pharmaceutical manufacturers, regulators and other industry participants seeking to harness the potential of blockchain technology for creating resilient and transparent supply chains that uphold product quality and safety standards.Originality/valueThese findings underscore the significance of blockchain-enabled traceability systems in revolutionizing supply chain quality management practices to achieve superior strategic performance in the pharmaceutical sector.

Strategies for Green Supply Chain for Agriculture Equipment Manufacturing Industries: Perspective of Blockchain- IoT Integrated Architecture

In order to protect the environment, manufacturing sectors have begun implementing a green supply chain (GSC) strategy. Governments are enacting increasingly stringent environmental regulations; consequently, industries must reduce the environmental impact of their supply chains. Our research investigates the barriers to implementing a GSC in the agriculture equipment manufacturing industries (AEMI). This research aims to discover and prioritize the barriers that impede the implementation of sustainable supply chain strategies in the AEMI. Through an in-depth literature review, contributions from experts, and empirical analysis, seventy-one barriers are identified across ten categories. The top barrier in each category is determined using the Delphi approach. The Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (F-TOPSIS) method creates an exhaustive framework that evaluates and ranks these barriers. The top five barriers are the lack of an environmental partnership with buyers and suppliers, the design complexity when reusing or recycling old goods or products, carbon emissions, paint shop emissions, lack of environmental education and training professionals that lack the necessary skills and less manpower available for the greening supply chain. This framework facilitates decision-makers to organize resources and create effective strategies for overcoming identified barriers. In addition, we proposed a blockchain IoT integrated architecture and strategies. This integrated architecture and strategies will help to mitigate all GSC barriers. It also increases the supply chain's transparency, traceability and effectiveness, fostering sustainability practices and reducing environmental impacts. Blockchain and IoT facilitate real-time data collaboration, computerized transactions and the implementation of smart contracts, thereby enhancing cooperation, trust and collaboration among stakeholders. Implementing GSC practices enables manufacturers to reduce waste and increase productivity, thereby saving funds. In addition, adopting sustainable practices improves these industries' reputation and brand image among environmentally conscious customers, investors and other stakeholders.

Assessment methods and digital tools to support circular building strategies

Abstract The aim of the paper is to highlight how digital technology can be a vector for maintaining information of buildings products, promoting supply chain transparency and traceability of materials and environmental data, contributing to activate a sustainable circular economy. Indeed, the current lack of knowledge of product characteristics often hinders the activation of reverse logistic and the assessment of the environmental benefits of circular material flows. This means, on one hand, the need to trace and collect product characteristics and product environmental information throughout the entire life cycle, and, on the other hand, the to identify ways of communicating and sharing information. This paper outlines current digital tools to support transparency and traceability of materials. Next, the paper verticalises the method and indicators used to declare the circular and sustainable profile of products, emphasising the importance of applying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Finally, the prefiguration of a possible integration between traceability tools and the LCA methodology is discussed, identifying possible drivers (e.g. legislative, trainings) and possible key-operators for the widespread of the “LCA-integrated traceability tools”.

Challenges of blockchain adoption for manufacturing supply chain to achieve sustainability: A case of rubber industry

Global market competitiveness and standards are pushing the manufacturing supply chain to adopt sustainable approaches to enhance quality, reduce waste, improve environmental practices, and optimize product costs. Blockchain technology has emerged as a promising tool for improving supply chain transparency and manufacturing sustainability. However, various challenges to the mainstream use of blockchain must be identified and addressed. In this regard, the study aims to identify and comprehend the challenges of adopting blockchain technology in the manufacturing sector to improve sustainable standards. To bridge this gap, the study used a three-step procedure. First, through a comprehensive literature review, 19 potential challenges were identified. Then, with the experts' discussion, a total of 18 challenges were finalized. In the second phase, data was collected from 15 professionals with industrial backgrounds. Lastly, the collected data was analyzed using Combined Compromise Solution methodologies and the Fuzzy-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (fuzzy DEMATEL). This hybrid methodology prioritizes the challenges in blockchain adoption and categorizes them into causal groups. This improves the decision-making process by evaluating how the mutual impact of challenges in blockchain adoption affects achieving sustainability in the manufacturing supply chain. The outcomes of the presented work are validated through a sensitivity analysis of the outranked dimensions of blockchain adoption challenges. Results show that 'High Initial Investment Cost' and 'Lack of Digital Skills’ are the top challenges in its adoption. The findings of this work provide a roadmap to make the manufacturing supply chain sustainable and accomplish sustainability.

AGRARIAN. AI

For the agriculture industry to remain sustainable, it needs to improve output, quality, marketing infrastructure, and food management. Supply chain transparency is required due to food safety concerns, and traceability technologies such as blockchain and AI are essential for confirming the provenance of products. Significant improvements to the agricultural system are required to meet growing demand. Blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) are two examples of modern technologies that are essential for solving difficult problems and expediting procedures. In order to advance agriculture toward a more transparent, safe, and sustainable future, this abstract highlight the significance of technology.

Digital transformation of the future of forestry: an exploration of key concepts in the principles behind Forest 4.0

This paper looks at the incorporation of blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into Forest 4.0, a sector that harnesses advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and big data for efficient and sustainable forest monitoring and management. The synergy of blockchain and IoT has gained significant attention, offering a secure and decentralized framework for data management, traceability, and supply chain oversight. The provided use cases demonstrate how these technologies improve forest practices, with insight into smart contract implementation and decentralized systems for sustainable forest management. The major findings imply that digital technologies such as blockchain, IoT, AI, WSNs, etc. can help improve forest management sustainability, efficiency and transparency, and integration of these technologies can provide significant information for decision-making and resource allocation, as well as improve supply chain transparency and sustainable forest practices.

IoT-GChain: Internet of Things-Assisted Secure and Tractable Grain Supply Chain Framework Leveraging Blockchain

The grain supply chain is crucial for any nation’s self-sustainability due to its huge impact on food security, economic stability, and the livelihoods of several people. The path grain takes from farmers to consumers is opaque and complicated, due to which consumers cannot trust grain quality and its origin. Although blockchain is widely used for fair and secure transactions between farmers and buyers, issues related to transparency and traceability in the grain supply chain, such as counterfeiting and middlemen involvement, have not been adequately addressed. To tackle these issues, a blockchain-based solution is proposed that unites farmers, warehouses, government central and state agencies, transporters, and food corporations on a single platform to enhance transparency, traceability, and trust among all parties. This system involves minting a non-fungible token (NFT) corresponding to each lot of grain approved by government officials. The NFT comprises grain quality, type, temperature data from sensors, weight, and ownership information, which updates as the grain lot moves across the supply chain from central agencies to state agencies and so on. NFTs enable stakeholders to track the grain lot from cultivation to end-users, providing insights into grain conditions and quality. An Internet of Things-based circuit is designed using a Digital-output relative humidity & temperature (DHT22) sensor, which offers real-time temperature and humidity readings, and geolocation coordinates are gathered from the GPS module across the supply chain. Farmers can directly interact with warehouses to sell grains, eliminating the need for middlemen and fostering trust among all parties. The proposed four-tier framework is implemented and deployed on the Ethereum network, with smart contracts interacting with React-based web pages. Analysis and results of the proposed model illustrate that it is viable, secure, and superior to the existing grain supply chain system.

Food provenance assurance and willingness to pay for blockchain data security: A case of Australian consumers

Blockchain technology has properties that improve supply chain transparency, traceability, and accountability, but how important are these security features to the consumer? This study investigates, consumers' willingness to choose and pay a premium for blockchain-certified food products. The major findings of this study are that consumers show positive receptiveness towards blockchain and disfavour unethical food production methods revealing sustainability consciousness guiding their consumption. We find that females place a greater value on food transparency and product labelling verification and are more willing to pay a premium. In addition, the results have important marketing implications according to our choice modeling findings.

When do shoppers prefer using QR codes? Empirical evidence from Vietnam

This research aimed to explore the factors influencing the behavioural intention to use over-the-counter (OTC) QR codes for purchasing products in Vietnamese supermarkets. The study included 996 consumers and employed a questionnaire-based survey method to test the hypotheses using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Drawing on the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and signalling theory, the findings identified five key factors that positively affected the intention to use OTC QR codes: perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes (e.g., for payment and traceability), attitude, customer satisfaction, and supply chain transparency. Additionally, the perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes positively impacted attitude and customer satisfaction, while its usefulness for traceability enhanced supply chain transparency. The study also identified the moderating influence of personal innovativeness on the relationship between perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes for payment and attitude and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the moderating role of electronic Word-of-Mouth (e-Word-of-Mouth) in the relationship between customer satisfaction, attitude, and behavioural intention was discovered. This research contributes to the existing literature by expanding our understanding of the perceived usefulness of OTC QR codes and elucidating the various mechanisms through which their both functionalities could encourage consumer adoption in the context of Vietnamese supermarkets.

From tradition to technological advancement: embracing blockchain technology in family businesses

PurposeDespite the rapid advancement of blockchain technology across various sectors, scholarly research on its application within family businesses remains significantly underdeveloped. This study aims to address this gap by examining the application of blockchain technology within family businesses to identify key application domains, benefits and implementation challenges.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a conceptual approach, drawing on existing literature on family businesses and blockchain technology. This review aimed to identify the unique characteristics of family businesses, their challenges and the distinctive features of blockchain technology that can potentially be mapped to each other. Based on the literature review, we develop a conceptual framework exploring blockchain technology applications in family businesses. Real-world case studies of family businesses that have implemented blockchain technology were identified to provide practical insights and implementation challenges.FindingsBlockchain technology possesses transformative potential for family businesses across several critical domains. It includes enhancing trust and transparency in operations, improving governance and decision-making and facilitating succession planning and intergenerational wealth management. Case study evidence illustrates the tangible benefits of blockchain, including enhanced supply chain transparency, optimized business processes, increased customer trust and resultant business sustainability. Blockchain technology implementation challenges include data privacy concerns, integration with legacy systems, regulatory uncertainty and change management issues.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited by its reliance on existing literature and case studies. It may not capture the full spectrum of challenges and opportunities associated with blockchain applications in family businesses. Future research should focus on longitudinal and empirical research to provide a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain technology application in family businesses.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of family businesses and blockchain technology, an area that has received limited academic attention. It identifies potential application domains of blockchain technology in family businesses and develops a conceptual framework based on existing literature. Through case studies, the research provides practical insights and valuable lessons for family businesses considering blockchain implementation. It also addresses key considerations and challenges, providing a clear roadmap for blockchain technology integration in family businesses. The study lays the groundwork for further research and exploration in blockchain technology and family businesses.