Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative tool with the potential to revolutionize various industries, including supply chain management. This study investigates the impact of blockchain technology on supply chain management efficiency and transparency in the retail industry. The research aims to explore how the adoption of blockchain technology can enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase transparency in retail supply chains. The study begins with an introduction that provides background information on blockchain technology and its relevance to supply chain management in the retail sector. The problem statement highlights the current challenges faced by retailers in managing complex supply chains and the potential benefits of integrating blockchain technology. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the impact of blockchain on supply chain efficiency and transparency, identify key factors influencing successful blockchain implementation, and propose recommendations for retailers looking to adopt this technology. The research methodology section outlines the approach taken to collect and analyze data for this study. Data collection methods include interviews with industry experts, surveys of retail supply chain managers, and a review of existing literature on blockchain technology and supply chain management. The findings from these sources are presented in the literature review chapter, which discusses the key concepts, theories, and empirical studies related to blockchain technology and supply chain management in the retail industry. The discussion of findings chapter provides a detailed analysis of the data collected, highlighting the benefits and challenges of implementing blockchain technology in retail supply chains. Key themes include increased traceability, enhanced security, improved inventory management, and the potential for cost savings. The chapter also addresses issues such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory concerns that may impact the widespread adoption of blockchain technology in the retail sector. In conclusion, this study underscores the significant potential of blockchain technology to transform supply chain management practices in the retail industry. By enhancing transparency, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs, blockchain has the capacity to drive innovation and competitiveness in retail supply chains. The study concludes with recommendations for retailers seeking to leverage blockchain technology effectively and suggests areas for future research to further explore the implications of blockchain in supply chain management. Keywords Blockchain technology, Supply chain management, Retail industry, Efficiency, Transparency.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Analyzing the Impact of Blockchain Technology on Supply Chain Management Efficiency and Transparency in the Retail Industry" aims to investigate the effects of blockchain technology on enhancing the efficiency and transparency of supply chain management practices within the retail sector. The research seeks to explore how blockchain, as a decentralized and secure digital ledger system, can revolutionize traditional supply chain processes by providing a transparent, immutable, and tamper-proof record of transactions and product movement. The retail industry faces numerous challenges related to supply chain management, including issues of trust, transparency, data security, and visibility across complex networks of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Blockchain technology has emerged as a potential solution to address these challenges by enabling real-time tracking, verification, and authentication of goods and transactions at every stage of the supply chain. The project will begin with an introduction that outlines the significance of the study, followed by a background section that provides an overview of supply chain management in the retail industry and the emergence of blockchain technology as a disruptive innovation. The problem statement will highlight the current gaps and limitations in supply chain management practices that blockchain technology aims to address, leading to the formulation of research objectives that seek to explore the impact of blockchain on enhancing efficiency and transparency. The research methodology will involve a comprehensive literature review to examine existing studies, theories, and frameworks related to blockchain technology and supply chain management. The review will cover topics such as the benefits of blockchain in enhancing transparency, reducing fraud, improving traceability, and optimizing supply chain processes. Additionally, the methodology will incorporate case studies and empirical data analysis to provide real-world insights into the practical applications and outcomes of implementing blockchain technology in the retail supply chain. The findings discussion will present the results of the research, including the identified benefits, challenges, and implications of integrating blockchain technology into supply chain management practices within the retail industry. The discussion will analyze how blockchain can streamline operations, reduce costs, enhance trust among stakeholders, and improve overall supply chain efficiency and transparency. In conclusion, the project will summarize the key findings and insights gained from the research, highlighting the potential of blockchain technology to transform supply chain management practices in the retail sector. The study aims to contribute valuable knowledge to academia, industry practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in leveraging blockchain technology to optimize supply chain operations and drive greater efficiency and transparency in the retail industry.