PurposeConsidering the importance of a safe food chain for consumers and the advent of blockchain technology (BT), this research studies a food service (FS) distributor. The research aims to understand the implications related to the functional processes of distribution in FS in which it would be possible to use blockchain to achieve agility, transparency of information and improvements in food safety.Design/methodology/approachFirstly, theory regarding blockchain technology in the supply chain (BT-SC) and FS was analyzed to contextualize the theme conceptually. A single case study including 11 supply chain companies was applied in a BT implementation study in an FS distributor.FindingsInvestment in infrastructure is often identified as a barrier to adoption of BT-SC. This was, however, not found in this case. Furthermore, the validation of users was only necessary for those parties directly participating in the process or information input. Finally, findings differentiate between qualifying criteria and operational processes when considering BT projects in FS.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings are restricted to this single case that provided an in-depth understanding of the topic. Statistical generalization is not possible at this stage of the research.Practical implicationsThe study is a practical example and can provide several insights to anyone looking to implement BT in their SC.Social implicationsThe social importance of the study lies in the importance of FS in the food sector, and by presenting ways that contribute to mitigating risks to consumers.Originality/valueReal-life cases of application of BT-SC illustrate its functionalities in operational processes.

PurposeThe paper aims to further understanding of connectivity from the perspective of blockchain technology (BT) in the supply chain (SC). It presents the weaknesses (inhibitors) of connectivity during technology implementation, focusing on supply chain interaction and resilience.Design/methodology/approachRestricting the focus to digital connectivity, interaction and supply chain resilience, this paper uses a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine how the literature has addressed, related or flagged connectivity weaknesses affecting supply chain interaction and resilience.FindingsThis study highlights the influence of connectivity for blockchain-technology projects. Technical and organisational influencers that affect the adoption of technology in the SC are presented. These influencers support the factors proposed in this study regarding the weaknesses that negatively affect the interaction between the agents involved and the SC's resilience. The research suggests that the weaknesses are related to technical needs and the relationships between companies arising from functionalities.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is restricted to a review of the theory and the researched material. Although the author was careful to choose the best search terms related to the research objective, some potentially relevant articles may have been excluded.Practical implicationsThe study summarises research on blockchain connectivity influencers in the SC, helping managers to anticipate and mitigate some of doubts and concerns in projects of this nature.Originality/valueThis is one of the first articles in the area of operations and SCs that addresses the topic of connectivity, focusing on its restrictive factors (connectivity inhibitors), in the context of blockchain implementation in the SC.

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PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyze blockchain (Bc) platforms in order to expand knowledge about the functionalities applied to supply chains (SCs). Therefore, this research seeks to address what these functionalities are and whether they are aligned with the theory.Design/methodology/approachThe research utilizes a literature review on Bc in SC (Bc-SC) and an exploratory study focusing on the developers of Bc platforms.FindingsThe research maps and synthesizes concepts and applications of the platforms for SC. The platforms involved with the development of solutions with Bc technology are relatively representative (138 found by this research, and 47 offer solutions in SC), as well as the diversity of solutions and application (101 applications), covering different activities and areas of the SC.Research limitations/implicationsDespite extensive research and data analysis, there may be other platforms and solutions not analyzed in this paper.Practical implicationsThe narrative and the different examples provided contribute to managers' understanding of the different possibilities for Bc-SC. Studying the services offered by the various platforms also enables managers to better understand what options exist and could potentially be utilized.Originality/valueThis is one of the first papers in a leading international OSCM (operations and supply chain management) journal to analyze the Bc platforms in SC and thereby has its relevance by synthesizing the knowledge that is dispersed in software developers (platforms).

Outsourcing logistics has established itself in the area of the LSP (Logistics Service Provider), which offers a range of services to its customers. In this line, transportation is characterized as one of the most important services, and therefore efficient fleet management is essential for establishing a high level of customer service. With advances in technology and vehicle tracking systems, this approach of management has gained new possibilities for the improvement of logistics services. By studying the specific case of an LSP, this paper investigates the use of these technologies in the management of their business and services. The results indicate that the LSP seeks to increase its services and to streamline information in order to respond to customer needs in real time. It is also evident in this case under study that the combination of the technology available together with the fleet management system has become a distinguishing feature for this LSP, one which increases their skills and important information for both customers and business.

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This paper analyzes, in the form of a case study, the coordination of ten 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) by a logistics leader (4PL - Fourth-Party Logistics). The study contributes to the understanding of the factors that differentiate 3PL as collaborators and as potential competitors, revealing that the services they render complement each other within the same operation.