Country level blockchain readiness index for firms in supply chains: an empirical study

This study addresses a gap in the literature by proposing and empirically validating a novel, integrated decision tool for blockchain adoption in supply chains, the Country Level Blockchain Readiness Index for Firms in Supply Chains (CLBRI-FSC). The index integrates five dimensions, including financial support, information technology infrastructure, logistics infrastructure, human capital, and organisational capital. Based on established theoretical frameworks, the index uses secondary data from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It employs Min–Max normalisation to standardise indicators and cosine similarity. It calculates readiness scores, offering a replicable and data-driven metric. Results highlight regional differences. Organisations in Northern and Western European countries like Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium show strong readiness in financial and technological infrastructure. Organisations in Southern European countries such as Italy and Portugal exhibit greater readiness in human and organisational capital, reflecting more managerial flexibility and skill development. Organisations in Central and Eastern European countries, including Romania and Bulgaria, show low readiness across most dimensions due to financial, infrastructural, and institutional challenges. The findings provide insights for managers, industry, and policymakers to develop supportive strategies for blockchain adoption.