Exploring IoT adoption and operational efficiency within the international chilled beverages industry

ABSTRACTResearch on the adoption of IoT technology in the global chilled beverages industry is limited. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on chilled beverage sales and disrupted the operations of organizations within this industry. In order to navigate the challenges posed by this “new normal,” the implementation of IoT adoption strategies becomes increasingly vital. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 leaders representing 14 chilled beverage companies across five continents, following the Gioia methodology. Our study findings shed light on the critical role of operational efficiency and organizational capability in the successful adoption of IoT technology. By focusing on these aspects, our study aims to contribute to the seamless integration of IoT technology into the chilled beverages industry. To align with this goal, we propose an innovative IoT adoption framework tailored to support managers in navigating this understudied topic.KEYWORDS: Operational efficienciesbottler operationsInternet of thingstechnology adoptionCovid-19organizational capability Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).Additional informationNotes on contributorsNiazy KioufiNiazy Kioufi is the CEO and founder of eyya.com, a London-based IoT solutions company. He holds a Ph.D. from Brunel University London, an MBA from London Metropolitan University, and an MSc. in Computing from North London University. His research primarily centers around IoT adoption and Dynamic Capabilities. With a wealth of experience in software and technology startups, Niazy has occupied diverse leadership roles, including CEO, COO, and VP of Professional Services. His areas of expertise encompass Internet of Things (IoT), eBusiness, document automation, business process automation, eCommerce, business strategy, and consulting services.Weifeng ChenWeifeng Chen is a Reader at Brunel Business School, Brunel University London. His expertise lies in technology adoption, business model innovation, digitalization, social transformation, and sustainability. He earned his Ph.D. from Brunel University London. Dr. Chen's research primarily explores the influence of disruptive technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain on innovative business models and ecosystem co-creation within sustainable global value chains. He also investigates contemporary challenges in international strategic innovation management and the management of international talents for new products, services, and applications. He has been involved in collaborative research projects with organizations such as the United Nations, the EU, and the British Council, working across various industries and public sector entities both in the UK and internationally. Furthermore, he has offered consultancy services in the realm of business model innovation and optimization. His research findings have been published in esteemed journals, including the Journal of Business Research, Production Planning and Control, International Review of Administrative Sciences, Technological Forecasting & Social Change, Information Technology for Development, and Regional Studies, among others.