Developing a Blockchain Based Tracking System to Enhance Supply Chain Visibility with IoT at Carrefour

Abstract

In today’s consumer-driven market, transparency and trust in the supply chain are critical to maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring customer satisfaction. Traditional supply chain systems often rely on manual processes, centralized databases, and fragmented communication, which can lead to inefficiencies, lack of visibility, and even fraud. The retail industry is increasingly leveraging advanced technologies to enhance supply chain management (SCM) efficiencies and improve customer satisfaction. This study explores the implementation of a blockchain-based tracking system integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT) at Carrefour, one of the leading global retailers. The project's primary goal was to increase supply chain visibility, reduce operational costs, and elevate consumer trust through enhanced transparency. The integration of blockchain and IoT technologies facilitated real-time tracking and monitoring of products throughout the supply chain, from origin to retail shelves. Significant improvements were observed in supply chain visibility with precise traceability and real-time data updates, leading to more accurate inventory management and reduced losses due to spoilage and damages. The use of smart contracts automated key supply chain processes such as payments and compliance checks, reducing manual intervention and associated human errors. Moreover, the system's transparency features enabled Carrefour to provide consumers with detailed insights into product origins and handling processes, thus significantly enhancing customer trust and satisfaction. However, the implementation faced challenges, including the complexity of integrating new technologies with existing systems, the scale of IoT deployment, data security concerns, and initial resistance to change among staff. Despite these challenges, the project demonstrated substantial benefits in operational efficiency and customer engagement. Future work will focus on expanding the scope of technology integration to cover more products and regions, enhancing consumer interaction through digital platforms, and further automating supply chain decisions with advanced analytics. This study underscores the transformative potential of blockchain and IoT technologies in reshaping retail supply chains, highlighting both the immediate benefits and the challenges of technological integration in a complex retail environment.