Bumble Bee and Blockchain
Yen-Ting Lin, David Pyke, Richard Clarke, and Aubree Corporandy
Knauss School of Business, University of San Diego, USA
Volume 15: 2021, pp. 33-58; ABSTRACT
This paper presents a case study that examines Bumble Bee’s decision whether to implement a blockchain solution for tuna sourcing from individual fishers across thousands of islands in Indonesia. Sustainable fishing and ethical sourcing are key considerations in the fishing industry. Having a credible system for ensuring the fish are indeed sustainably sourced is crucial, and blockchain technology holds the promise of providing just that. The case presents students with some of the pros and cons of implementing a blockchain solution, and the class discussion allows them to support their decision. The paper includes a teaching note for instructors that provides a guide to leading the discussion, as well as substantial information about Bumble Bee’s decision. Finally, it outlines new issues that Bumble Bee faced after the initial decision on blockchain. The discussion can lead to a framework for companies that are considering blockchain solutions for their supply chain challenges.
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