Distributed Ledger Technology als [R]evolution des Supply Chain Managements – eine empirische Untersuchung bei Schweizer Nahrungsmittelproduzenten

This dissertation examines the impact of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) and blockchain on the supply chain management (SCM) of Swiss food producers, with a particular focus on the supply chain strategies of lean, agile, and leagile. DLT/blockchain offers promising applications, such as monitoring delivery conditions and enhancing product authenticity. A traceability test highlights the technology’s efficiency, demonstrating that product tracking times can be reduced from several days to just a few seconds, significantly improving the availability of critical information in the food sector.
The research problem stems from the insufficient differentiation between various SC strategies regarding blockchain deployment. Each strategy requires specific success factors that blockchain technology can support.
The academic relevance lies in investigating DLT/blockchain as a strategic influence within existing SC strategies, emphasizing the necessity of differentiation since different drivers are targeted depending on the strategy’s orientation. The practical relevance is found in optimizing supply chains through an enhanced understanding of DLT/blockchain’s specific impacts on different supply chain strategies. A better awareness of existing supply chain configurations allows for a more targeted application of the technology and more precise management of critical requirements, resulting in an improved cost-benefit ratio when integrating the technology.
The dissertation aims to identify the strategic relevance of DLT/blockchain for different SC strategies and to determine which SC drivers benefit most from its implementation. Furthermore, it analyses challenges and risks associated with adaptation.
The methodology is based on a systematic literature review and 14 expert interviews, which were transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis following Mayring’s approach.
The results show that the integration of DLT/blockchain technology is feasible and confirmed through pilot projects. Advantages such as traceability and transparency are evident, although strategic relevance remains limited due to challenges including inadequate IT infrastructure, unclear cost structures, and increased coordination efforts. Nevertheless, the technology shows potential for increasing supply chain efficiency. In agile SC strategies, blockchain enables a flexible and secure data infrastructure supporting rapid market responses. Lean strategies benefit from automation and waste reduction. Decentralized data storage enhances protection against manipulation and builds trust, for example by providing information on cultivation areas. The introduction of the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the increasing use of artificial intelligence further strengthen the potential and synergies of blockchain, with experts seeing promising future applications.
However, the findings are not generalizable due to the limited sample size and the selection process of participants. Industry- and country-specific differences further complicate transferability. Despite measures to reduce bias, complete elimination was methodologically impossible.
The dissertation concludes that DLT/blockchain has the potential to positively influence SC strategies among Swiss food producers. The forthcoming introduction of the EUDR and the growing need for tamper-proof and trustworthy information emphasize the importance of reassessing the technology.