Determinants of smart contract adoption in supply chains: a UTAUT-based PLS-SEM analysis

Abstract This study explores the factors that influence employees’ intention to use distributed ledger-based smart contracts in supply chains, addressing a gap in current research by applying the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to this emerging technology within logistics contexts. Based on a quantitative survey of employees in German supply chain companies, the study measured constructs such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the findings reveal that performance expectancy is a key driver of behavioural intention. In contrast, effort expectancy and social influence have no significant impact. Additionally, demographic variables such as gender, age, experience, and voluntariness do not moderate these relationships. These results highlight the central role of perceived performance benefits in shaping adoption intentions. As the first study to apply an adoption framework to smart contract use specifically in supply chains, it offers valuable insights into the socio-technical dynamics of technology acceptance at the employee level. The findings suggest that supply chain managers should focus on communicating and demonstrating performance gains, supporting adoption through pilot implementations, and providing targeted training initiatives to encourage the integration of smart contracts in operational processes.