Review Article: Blockchain Technology and Governance of Franchise Networks

ABSTRACT This study explores the implications of the introduction of blockchain technology for the governance of franchise networks. In light of the limited prior research on this topic, the study employs a twofold approach. It begins by identifying the central themes present in current research at the intersection of franchising and blockchain technology. Next, it examines existing instances of implementations of blockchain technology and connects them to corresponding value chain operations in the franchising context. The study takes a comprehensive approach, combining bibliometric analysis with a semisystematic literature review, to offer insights into blockchain technology's potential future impact on the franchise industry. Specifically, it shows that franchise network governance can benefit significantly from attributes of blockchain such as transparency, efficiency, and trust as well as from its various applications such as smart contracts and decentralized autonomous organizations.