A data-driven decision support system with smart packaging in grocery store supply chains during outbreaks.

Area of Science:

• Supply Chain Management
• Food Science
• Data Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates "no-touch" solutions in grocery retail for hygiene and safety.
• Smart packaging offers consumers information on product freshness without physical contact.
• Sustainable management of grocery supply chains is crucial during health crises to minimize food waste.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a data-driven decision support system utilizing smart packaging for sustainable grocery supply chain management during outbreaks.
• To develop a model that dynamically adjusts prices of perishable goods based on freshness to reduce waste and maximize profit.
• To enhance inventory turnover rates and customer satisfaction in grocery retail environments.

Main Methods:

• Development of a data-driven decision support system integrating smart packaging as a product-service system.
• Implementation of a dynamic pricing model that adjusts product cost based on real-time freshness levels.
• Testing the model using a hypothetical case study involving a single perishable product.

Main Results:

• The proposed model effectively manages grocery supply chains during outbreaks by dynamically updating prices.
• Significant reductions in food waste and customer rejections were observed.
• Increased inventory turnover rates and maximized profit were achieved through the smart packaging system.
• Key factors influencing supply chain performance include stock capacities, freshness discount rates, freshness periods, and quantity discounts.

Conclusions:

• Smart packaging integrated into a product-service system provides a viable solution for managing grocery retail supply chains during health crises.
• Dynamic pricing based on product freshness is an effective strategy for waste reduction and profit maximization.
• The study highlights the importance of considering various parameters like stock capacity and discount strategies for optimizing supply chain performance.