Restrukturierung von Wertschöpfungsketten in der Digitalisierung : Eine Analyse der deutschen Schuhbranche vom Hersteller bis zum Konsumenten

• Restructuring of value chains in digitalization : An analysis of the German footwear sector from manufacturer to consumer

Herb, Christopher Stefan; Neiberger, Cordula (Thesis advisor); Rauh, Jürgen (Thesis advisor)

Würzburg : Würzburg University Press (2022)
Book, Dissertation / PhD Thesis

In: Geographische Handelsforschung 32
Page(s)/Article-Nr.: 1 Online-Ressource : Illustrationen, Diagramme

Dissertation, RWTH Aachen University, 2021

Abstract

Global value chains (GVC) not only represent highly complex structures of relationships, but are also subject to a constant process of change. A key driver of these processes of change is technological progress. Modern information and communication technologies, especially the phenomena of digitalization and e-commerce, are currently of particular importance for GVC, as different advances in digitalization can lead not only to economic advantages and disadvantages for companies, but also to up- or downgrading processes within GVC. This study examines on the retail- and consumer-related part of GVC in order to investigate the consequences of digitalization for manufacturers, retailers and consumers. The German footwear sector serves as a specific research example, as it is currently undergoing major structural change - from industry to retail. The analysis shows that the complexity of GVC has increased significantly in the course of digitalization. In the footwear sector, new players are entering the market and existing players have to adapt. Direct consequences are not only a new constellation of players, but also a newly forming power structure. This results in the re-organization of previous value chains.

Institutions

• Division of Earth Sciences and Geography [530000]
• Economic Geography of Services Teaching and Research Area [551720]