The Rise of Platform-Based Supply Chains: Disruptive Potential and Strategic Implications

Purpose: This paper investigates the rise of platform-based supply chains (PBSCs) as a disruptive force reshaping contemporary commerce and logistics. It aims to dissect the mechanisms through which digital platforms alter traditional supply chain structures, operations, and governance, and to delineate the critical strategic implications for incumbent firms, new entrants, and policymakers. Design/Methodology/Approach: This is a conceptual paper that synthesizes and builds upon an extensive body of recent literature. Drawing from theories of disruptive innovation, transaction cost economics, and ecosystem strategy, the paper analyzes the architectural shift from linear, dyadic supply chain relationships to multi-sided, networked ecosystems. It develops a novel conceptual framework—the PBSC Disruption-Response Framework—to structure the analysis of disruptive forces and categorize strategic firm-level responses. Findings: The research identifies four primary mechanisms of disruption driven by platforms: (1) ecosystem orchestration over linear management, (2) data-centric control and intelligence, (3) asset-light operational models, and (4) reconfigured value capture dynamics. The paper argues that the core disruption lies not merely in technology adoption but in the fundamental change of the supply chain’s organizing logic. Based on this, it proposes four strategic archetypes for firms: Platform Adopter, Platform Orchestrator, Specialized Niche Player, and Platform Resistor. Originality/Value: This paper provides a holistic, integrated perspective on the platform phenomenon in supply chain management. By synthesizing disparate research streams on technology (e.g., blockchain, cloud), strategy (e.g., GVCs, business models), and operations (e.g., resilience, sustainability), it offers a comprehensive understanding of the PBSC paradigm. The proposed framework provides both a valuable analytical tool for researchers and actionable strategic guidance for managers navigating this complex and rapidly evolving landscape. The paper concludes with a robust agenda for future research. Keywords: Platform Economy, Supply Chain Management, Digital Disruption, Business Model Innovation, Supply Chain Resilience, Global Value Chains, Ecosystem Strategy.