Impact of RFID Technology on Mobile B2B e-Commerce: A Case Study in the UK Retail Industry

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Examining the impact of RFID (Radio Frequency
Identification) technology on mobile B2B (Business to Business)
e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail industry.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Abstract

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Acknowledgement

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 1 – Introduction
1.1 Introduction
The primary focus of the article this paper is to research, evaluate and understand the
impact of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology on mobile Business to Business
(B2B) e-commerce and the supply chain performance of the retail industry of United
Kingdom. The study aims to improve the real understanding of how the RFID technology can
be applied in mobile e-commerce. The utilization of RFID technology has recently been
widespread among a number of large world leading retailers such as Target, Walmart, Tesco
and many more. Some of these giant retailers are highly engaged in the deployment of RFID
technology in order to accomplish various tasks related to retailing such as asset tracking
across their individual supply chains and so on (Asare et al., 2016). Thus, the paper aims to
unveil the emerging business as well as technological scenario resulting from the integration
of radio frequency and EPC or Electronic Product Code network along with its impact on
mobile B2B e-commerce.
1.2 Research Aim
The research aims to identify and investigate the impact of RFID technology on the
retail industry of UK including its effects on sales increase, stock availability as well as
overall supply chain performance. In order to achieve this purpose, the study will focus on
the use of RFID by the major retail companies in the UK, investigate how RFID technology
helps in real time inventory tracking, and supply chain performance management by studying
the retail systems of certain selected UK retailers. To be more precise, the paper will uncover
the major aspects of RFID use in order to understand the different benefits of RFID
implementation in B2B E-commerce.
1.3 Research Objectives
The research objectives for this study are formulated underneath:
 To gain deeper insights into the implementation of RFID technology in e-commerce
and retailing
 To identify the impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-commerce in the UK
retail sector
 To evaluate the impact of integrating RFID-EPC network in supply chain
performance of UK retailers

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
1.4 Background of the Topic
Even though the concept of radio frequency identification or RFID technology has
emerged very recently, its origin of application dates back to the World War II, when RFID
was used by British Air Force in order to distinguish allied aircrafts from enemy aircrafts.
There are multiple benefits of RFID implementation within the retail supply chain
management. According to Yükseland Yüksel (2011), the benefits and advantages of RFID,
application depends on the characteristics of the products that already exist. The basic
benefits involve increased product visibility, reduced shrinkage, and improved information
sharing as well as faster exception management. However, as per Fan et al., (2015), there are
a number of obstacles to the successful application of RFID technology in e-commerce. In
addition to that, from the consumer’s perspectives, it associates various costs and benefits of
the application and implementation of RFID in retailing. The integration of RFID-EPC
(electronic product code) has made it possible to highly optimize and automate the existing
business processes in the retail industry of UK (Ramanathan, Ramanathan and Ko, 2014).
Furthermore, the RFID technology extensively helps the UK retail companies in enhancing
the product availability.
1.5 Rationale of the Study
The RFID technology is highly useful in retail business management and the UK
retail sector is increasingly deploying the RFID-EPC technological inventions to optimize
their retail and supply chain operations across the different stages of business. However,
according to Fosso Wamba (2012), despite of the significant advantages and benefits of radio
frequency technology and EPC network in retail supply chain, the overall understanding of
the impact is potentially limited. Hence, the different utilization of RFID by some large UK
retailers will be investigated in this study in order to unveil the implementation optimizations.
The automated identification is potentially useful for managing the retail supply chain
performance in a more efficient manner. According to Bertolini et al., (2012), RFID
technology does not require line of sight sensors like barcodes. With the modern
technological advancement, the cost of RFID technology has significantly fallen. As a result,
the take-up rate by the UK retail sector has been significant due to the enhanced grip of
technology. It has potentially revolutionized the retailer’s control of the supply chain stages
of individual products and items as well as improved knowledge about the consumers.
1.6 Research Questions
The research questions for the present study have been demonstrated as follows:

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
 How is RFID technology implemented in e-commerce and retailing?
 What is the impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-commerce in the UK retail
sector?
 What the impact of integrating RFID-EPC network in supply chain performance of
UK retailers?
Suggest adding a very short paragraph for each of these providing justifications and
reinforcing the importance.
1.7 Purpose of the Study
The primary purpose of the study is to identify the potential of RFID technology to
offer the UK retail sector a wide array of advantages and benefits throughout the supply chain
along with a higher level of management and control of the supply chain performances,
reduction in labor costs, reduction in shrinkage and improved customer experience. In
addition to that, the paper aims to study the major implications of RFID technology in order
to understand the pros and cons of implementing RFID-EPC in mobile B2B e-commerce in
terms of providing accurate, standardized and real time information (Vlachos, 2014). In the
UK retail industry, the radio waves in RFID technology is used to identify the individual
products and items that carry unique identification tags.
1.8 Structure of the Study
The study has been divided into multiple segments or chapters so that each of these
sections can highlight the research topic from different perspectives in a highly detailed
manner. Based on the particular chapter, the following aspects will be covered throughout the
study:
Chapter 1: Introduction: The basic details of the research study is described in this
section in such a way so that the readers can understand the purpose and rationale of
conducting the present study. Furthermore, the relevance of RFID technology in mobile e-
commerce and the retail industry is additionally discussed in a brief manner. In addition to
that, the research aim, research questions and research objectives further helps in better
implementation of the study and observation of results.
Chapter 2: Literature Review: This section comprises the fundamental theories,
concepts and ideas behind the research topic, which in turn will essentially help in
understanding the overall purpose and outcome of the research. In this section, the researcher
has tried to investigate and evaluate the overall concept of the impact of RFID technology in

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
mobile B2B e-commerce in the UK retail industry. The chapter evaluates the relevant
concepts of the study in a significantly standardized manner.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology: This particular section describes the research
process in order to demonstrate the method of conducting the present research and give a
better idea of understanding the topic of concern. The research methodology is dedicated to
guide the path that can be followed to execute the research, gather all the required details,
select the research design, research philosophy and better analyze the outcomes of the study.
For this purpose, the most suitable research methodology will be chosen to conduct the study.
Chapter 4: Data Analysis: Based on the collected data and research information, the
study will aim to analyze the selected data sources in order to generate the appropriate and
relevant results for the research. The impact of RFID on e-commerce and retailing in the UK
is analyzed through decision-making using various data analysis techniques and methods.
Chapter 5: Discussion: The section focuses on discussing about the outcomes and
results of data analysis with the help of different methods and techniques. The section
thoroughly talks about the outcomes of data analysis in order to demonstrate a deep insight
and detailed understanding of the study.
Chapter 6: Conclusion and Recommendations: The last chapter of the research will
demonstrate an overall view of the research topic that will involve the results and analysis as
well. Based on the research objectives, the study will be evaluated in order to determine the
level of success and limitation of the study.
1.9 Summary
The concept and impact of radio frequency identification or RFID and EPC or
electronic product code is highly integrated with the modern mobile B2B e-commerce along
with the retail industry. As identified in the present chapter, the research aim and research
objectives will help us to understand the benefits and obstacles of deploying this particular
technology in the retail industry. Followed by this chapter, the literature review chapter will
focus in detail on the various aspects and ideas of RFID implementation in supply chain
performance in the retail sector, which in turn will enhance the level of understanding and
knowledge of the readers.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 2 –Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
With the tremendous and rapid growth in the ICT (Information and Communication
Technology) industry, the Radio Frequency Identification or RFID tags and readers have
emerged as one of the most popular techniques used in inventory management, asset tracking,
supply chain management, information sharing, payment systems, security and access
control. Mandate compliances from the giant retailers such as Target, Walmart, and
Albertson etc. led to an increased awareness of the benefits of RFID. On the other hand,
many UK retailers are still uncertain about the ROI models of RFID, mostly due to the lack
of clear and thorough knowledge of the technology (Bertolini et al., 2012). However, this
particular paper focuses on unveiling the potential benefits, issues and challenges associated
with the implementation of RFID in the retail sector of UK. The paper will further investigate
the decisions taken by some of the major UK retailers for investing in RFID adoption.
2.2 RFID implications and simplification of processes
According to Choi et al. (2016), the implications of RFID include: (i) reduce
(thoughtful reduction is the easiest way to achieve simplicity); (ii) organize (Properly
organizing the components of a system reduces the overall complexity); (iii) time (time
saving is the key to simplicity) and (iv) learn (Gaining relevant knowledge helps make things
simpler).
In this relation, it is possible to reduce unnecessary information through RFID tagged
products and shelves. With the help of RFID wireless handheld devices, the sales persons can
easily learn the required information about customers by reading their personalized cards
(Ravi and Aparna, 2016). The RFID technology saves a lot of time as RFID tagged items
allow the store managers to track stock level information automatically and respond to
customer requests in a quick, automated and efficient way.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Figure 1: RFID Implications and Simplification of Processes
(Source: Sawant et al., 2015)
2.3 RFID warehousing applications
There is significant usefulness of RFID technology in warehouse or inventory
management operations. RFID systems enable items to have a secure and unique
identification number, which potentially simplifies the overall warehouse operations
including storage, picking, receiving and shipping of items (Vlachos, 2014). The enhanced
visibility offered by this wireless technology has essentially eliminated several drawbacks of
the old manual systems.
Receiving: Fixed position RFID (mounted at dock doors) or mobile RFID (as PDAs
or forklift) readers are used for automatically identifying the pallets unloaded from the truck.
The integrated RFID in the WMS (Warehouse Management System) reads the data from the
pallet tags and transfers it into WMS (Thiesse and Buckel, 2015). Thus, the inventory files
are updated automatically, resulting in highly reduced labour requirements.
Storage: It has become more than easy to store items according to their respective
storage locations. RFID readers read the RFID tags and scan locations, which makes it more
convenient to store items in specific storage locations.
Picking: The picking process becomes more simplified and easier by integrating
RFID with order management system. The WMS is used for auto-checking a particular order
and confirm the associated picked items.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Shipping: RFID readers effectively improve the accuracy of the shipping process
with the help of RFID tags and readers mounted on the pallets or handheld device (mobile
device).
2.4 Benefits of RFID in retailing
RFID enables reduced labour and processing time by accurate and automated
inventory tracking. There are vast possibilities of RFID/ EPC (Electronic Product Code)
applications in the retail industry, as it requires keeping track of all the objects in motion
throughout the supply chain (Rashid, Peig and Pous, 2015). The advanced technology of
RFID establishes complete visibility of inventory data in an accurate manner, which in turn
brings huge opportunities to improve and transform the supply chain operations.
According to Landmark and Sjobakk (2017), the UK retail sector is a major supporter
of the RFID technology. Not only that, Novotny, David and Csafor (2015) predicts stated that
RFID is rapidly replacing the barcode technology in the retail sector of UK. According to the
previous studies, the key drivers for RFID technology in UK retail companies are identified
as follows: decreasing cost of RFID readers and tags, EPC (electronic product code) global
initiatives for standardization and anti-counterfeiting. More and more UK retailers including
Marks & Spencer, Matalan, Amazon, H&M, Argos and River Island are recognizing and
utilizing the various advantages offered by RFID in retailing (Peng et al., 2019).
Operational efficiency: RFID adoption in retailing improves the overall operational
efficiency through increasing the speed and accuracy of process, automating the receiving
and shipping procedures, reduction of out of stock and inventory, improving overall labour
productivity and streamlining the manufacturing process.
Improved visibility: RFID offers real-time visibility, highly efficient and automated
tracing and tracking, asset management, streamlined reverse logistics. Asset tracking and
asset management becomes easier than ever before with the help of RFID tags and readers.
Improved security: RFID provides protection against thefts and frauds. RFID devices
such as fobs, smart cards and wristbands act as electronic keys to enable authorized access
and implement access control mechanisms. Company and stock equipment are RFID tagged
so that scanners set off alarms to prevent theft and unauthorized checkouts.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Other benefits of RFID in retailing include automated checkout process, cashless
payments, reduced costs, increased sales, improved customer service levels, interactive
advertising and better information accuracy (Rizzi and Volpi, 2017).
Figure 2: Integrated Retail Supply Chain
(Source: Herron, Castillo and Lewis, 2015)
2.4.1 Smart Shelf / Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)
Retail stores have limited availability of shelf space. As a result, one of the significant
issues retailers face is regarding which items to stock and how the scarce shelf space will be
allocated between the stocked items. Retailers are gradually realizing the potential of Smart
Shelf, in which the shelf stocked with an RFID tagged product incorporates an RFID reader.
The rate of depletion is automatically monitored and alert is generated when the stock runs
low. It automates the reordering for minimizing the out-of-stocks. Furthermore, it also
enables greater transparency on the overall sales floor.
2.4.2 Use of RFID for mobile B2B e-commerce
The use of RFID mobile technology has drastically transformed and redefined the
customer’s shopping experience. RFID integrated mobile e-commerce is capable of highly
improving the overall process by means of data persistence, decision making and data
management. NFC (Near Field Communication), an advanced technological development

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
using high frequency RFID enables highly convenient online payment with added layers of
security. It allows customers to pay for a product with just a single tap against an NFC
enabled payment station (Bhattacharya and Wamba, 2018). The capability of mobile RFID
lies in the appropriate implementation of NFC chips. Marketers and advertising agencies use
RFID tag integrated NFC chips in order to enhance the impact of their innovative marketing
techniques and attract customers to connect more. NFC helps retail companies as well as
customers with easy and quick payment and purchase. It requires an NFC enabled credit card
with a smartphone and it can improve the entire future of the payment process in retailing and
e-commerce of all shapes and sizes. To be more precise, RFID applications in B2B sector in
the retail industry focuses on the all relevant processes in supply chain management. For
instance, the HF/ RFID automate tracking and tracing of products (viz. alert for service
manufacturers or mobile product authentication).
Distribution
On the other hand, RFID influences the logistics providers and distributors because
they are able to know what is shipped, what is loaded and when goods ate going to arrive at
the desired destination. In other words, RFID allows better visibility and transparency levels
in the warehouse management system, which leads to higher profitability as well as cost
savings (Fan et al., 2015). Along with that, RFID also reduces labour requirements since the
majority of the total warehouse labour is spent on handling receiving goods. Apart from that,
RFID can scan multiple items simultaneously, which means faster speed in loading/
unloading.
Supply and manufacturing
They also highly benefit from RFID due to the great labour efficiency and enhanced
inventory visibility. In addition to that, the use of RFID tags and readers potentially reduces
the errors in product handling, data latency, and shrinkage as well as fixed assets by ensuring
proper utilization of equipment and space. Similarly, the manufacturing process can also
benefit by RFID through adding RFID tags for indicating what parts to install on a particular
product in a mixed model production line. According to FossoWamba (2014), the advantages
of RFID in manufacturing can be divided into three stages. First stage deals with compliance
with customer requests. Second stage focuses on internal supply chain and last stage deals
with extended supply chain or inter-enterprise supply chain.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Store stock and availability
RFID enabled retailing enables efficient management of store stock and stock
availability, which helps retailers to increase their revenue. To be more precise, using RFID,
it is possible to understand the location of the stock in store and thereby, ensure the
availability of items that are high in demand. Hence, it acts as one of the strong drivers of
RFID adoption between the sales floor and the stock room.
Loss prevention
Managing retail loss involves potential challenge due to the lack of precise data. As a
result, the development is made based on guesswork instead of calculated intervention. The
RFID chip or device is embedded to an asset in order to track the proper location of the asset.
In this way, the precise location of the company’s assets is always recorded. The RFID tags
have uniquely identifiable information about the particular asset (Ali and Hingst, 2018).
Thus, RFID technology enables the retailers to know where their assets are, which in turn
helps them in monitoring the production speed, delivery time and other associated factors. In
other words, RFID provides asset protection and in-store security by integrating an alert
system at the exit gates. It automatically alerts the security staff if any item is taken from the
store without permission. Logistics managers apply in-transit risk mitigation, as they are able
to see items being shipped through RFID tagged into GPS (Global Positioning System)
systems.
2.5 Challenges in RFID adoption
Integration issues: There are several challenges and issues associated with the
adoption of RFID technology. First, the integration of RFID with the existing system
involves potential challenges. More so, because, RFID generates a huge amount of data as
compared to the barcode technology (Xiao et al., 2018). As a result, the company needs to
invest in a brand new WMS (warehouse management system).
Security and privacy issues: Apart from that, companies also face significant
challenges regarding the associated privacy, integrity and security issues in RFID adoption.
To be more precise, the wireless communication between the RFID tags and readers can be
exposed to potential vulnerability and traffic analysis. In addition to that, there is a lack of
standards in the industry for the use of RFID. It restrains the application of this technology.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Cost issues: Cost is one of the main factors in the adoption of RFID. Companies are
sceptical about RFID adoption because they think that this technology will not pay off.
Adequate expenditure is associated with readers, tags, allied equipment, software, and
hardware and system maintenance.
Environmental issues: RFID tags may also raise environmental concerns as the non-
biodegradable tags contain poisonous metals. Hence, it requires reverse supply chains for tags
reuse and recycling. Along with that, major disputes arise in terms of sharing the costs
between the retailers and the manufacturers. Moreover, implementing and adopting RFID in
retailing and supply chain require significant changes in the process, culture and technology
all across the organizations.
2.6 Concerns for global brands
Another issue concerning the global brands involve may arise if the franchisees do not
agree to tag the items with RFID transponders if the franchisor does not agree to add RFID
tags to the products before it arrives at the retail store. According to Sawant et al. (2015), the
manufacturing facilities perform multiple RFID transactions such as item creation, item
loading, case loading to pallets, and finally pallet loading into a delivery truck.
On the other hand, the RFID transactions performed by the distributor’s warehouse
include pallet placement in warehouse and pallet loading into a delivery truck. The retail
stores have RFID enabled pallet unload, pallet unpacking, case unpacking, point of sales and
item placement. Consumer’s house perform RFID transactions such as item placement and
replenishment of shelf. It is not feasible enough for the large retailers to place RFID tags
before a product can enter the store. In addition to that, all the price tags and labels need to be
changed at least thrice in a year.
2.7 Relevant RFID fundamentals for retail supply chain systems
Internet based supply chains are becoming more and more popular with passing days
as the overall cost of management is highly reduced. As a result, it allows the partners to
invest money and effort in innovative product development works. In addition to that,
internet based supply chains do not require massive physical infrastructures. According to
Asare et al. (2016), the previous studies conducted in this topic say that the use of RFID
based systems is retail and supply chain is becoming more and more prevalent and important
in the modern era of technological development. RFID essentially improves information
accuracy and quality in the supply chain information systems. Therefore, the adoption of

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
RFID in collaboration with the supply chain partners can effectively benefit the overall
process. However, as per the views of Bhattacharya and Wamba (2018), in order to achieve
large scale RFID adoption in the retail sector, it is essential to standardize the technology.
Two individual international bodies such as the EPC Global and the ISO (International
Organization for Standardization) have undertaken the process of standardizing the RFID
technology on the global front. However, there are several technical challenges associated
with network, data and application layers. On the other hand, with the traditional barcode
technology, it was less complex.
Throughout the value chain, RFID can be potentially implemented at the pallet and
case levels from manufacturer to POS (Point of Sales). The manufacturers can affix RFID
tags to the product cases and pallets and it enables a convenient goods tracking system.
Therefore, while RFID tags are helping to establish an efficient Product Transport process,
it also helps in an effective Warehouse Dispatch, Warehouse Management and Storage
Processes, Goods Delivery to the Store Stockroom and Transport of Goods into the Sales
Room (Choi et al., 2016). Apart from that, item tagging with RFID also helps to identify
each individual product in a unique manner. Moreover, it helps in self-checkouts as well as
personalized advertising displays. Electronic price labelling with RFID technology further
enables a more current and easy to understand pricing system. For example, Herron, Castillo
and Lewis (2015) studied that numerous manufacturing partners are usually paired with
different categories of items or products at the warehouse, stockroom, shelf or the distribution
centre. The implementation of RFID technology on pallets and cases thus hugely influences
the processes, infrastructure as well as the relationships in the overall deployment of the retail
supply chain. In addition to that, it also implementing RFID tags on item level also facilitates
anti-theft protection. So far, several researchers have found that the primary utilization of
RFID technology is supply chain and logistics is in the areas of inventory management and
production flow.
In April 2019, one of the most popular retailers, the largest beer container rental
provider in Britain, the CBBR (Close Brothers Brewery Rentals) has implemented RFID
based systems to track their millions of containers being rented to different brewers. The
RFID enabled an automated tracking system through which the firm cloud easily keep track
of the casks and kegs through their maintenance and cleaning cycles (Peng et al., 2019).
Furthermore, they implemented handheld RFID readers to ship their beverage containers to

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
the customers. Thus, the firm could collect data about the location and status of their products
automatically through RFID tags and readers.
Summary

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 3 – Research Methodology
3.1 Introduction
The research methodology selection is important in order to conduct the study in the
best possible way available. The study typically focuses on identifying the impacts of using
RFID in mobile B2B e-commerce in the retail sector of United Kingdom. The main purpose
of applying a specific chosen methodology is to work on the different parameters and aspects
that can identify the precise solution to the particular research problem. In this context,
Kumar (2019) has commented that the application of a proper research methodology helps in
steering the research study in the desired direction so that it unveils the important theories,
concepts and ideas along the way. In addition to that, Silverman (2016) suggested that
without a research methodology, a researcher cannot achieve successful completion of the
study. The research methodology contains the individual processes in detail, interconnected
with each other in order to help analyse the impact of RFID in UK retailing and B2B e-
commerce.
3.2 Method Outline
The research methodology chapter demonstrates the undertaken techniques and
processes to carry out the research in detail on the selected topic of the study, which is the
‘impact of RFID in mobile B2B ecommerce: case study in UK retail industry’. In this
context, the appropriate research philosophy, research approach and research design will be
chosen for the primary purpose of collecting an adequate amount of relevant and useful data
on the topic of concern. For instance, the selection of the positivism research philosophy an
help the researcher in gaining relevant information where it is possible to apply proper logic
and evaluation procedures. In addition, research approach such as the deductive approach
allows the researchers to study the secondary sources for determining the important factors
associated with the topic. The application of research design with appropriate data collection
from both primary and secondary sources helps better quality of analysis. In this context, for
executing the primary data collection procedure, the selected sample size or population will
be 40 retailers from UK who have adopted or are planning to adopt the RFID technology in
the near future.
3.3 Research Philosophy
The selection of research philosophy is a crucial aspect in terms of determining the
suitable path to conduct the study and gain adequate insights into the details of the research

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
topic. As per the sayings of Flick (2015), researchers need to have a certain level of
assumptions at the time of conducting a research. In this context, the research philosophy
helps in the evaluation of the associated theories so that the study stays is sufficiently
effective and in proper alignment. The research philosophy contains epistemology, which can
be broadly categorized into three different forms such as realism, positivism and
interpretivism.
The positivism research philosophy relies on the application of logic in order to
analyse the hidden information and facts associated with the topic by means of scientific
approaches. However, positivism allows a great deal of detail in the observation of details
and collection of knowledge. On the other hand, interpretivism supports a comparatively
complex social structure of activities that is defined by the natural law. Apart from that,
realism is typically a mixture of both the positivism and interpretivism research philosophies
that describes human beliefs in the study of interaction with the reality.
3.3.1 Justification for selection of the chosen Philosophy
In this particular study, the positivism research philosophy is selected in order to
analyse the hidden facts associated with the study in a detailed manner. Apart from that, this
particular study is time constrained and hence, it was not possible to apply the interpretative
or realism philosophy in terms of evaluating and manipulating the collected data and
minimize errors as well. Therefore, the positivism research philosophy has been chosen in
order to identify and analyse the hidden facts related to the impacts of RFID technology on
the mobile B2B e-commerce in the retail industry of UK.
3.4 Research Approach
The research approach focuses on contributing the most suitable format required for
conducting the study while implementing the desired methods and techniques in order to
gather adequate amount of relevant information. In this context, the study can be conducted
in two different ways, either inductive approach or the deductive approach. The inductive
approach helps the research when adequate data is not available. On the other hand, the initial
phase of inductive approach allows gathering information for formulating the path of the
study accordingly. However, according to Walliman (2017), inductive approach aims to build
the appropriate theory for conducting the study. On the contrary, the deductive approach
takes help from the already existing research studies carried out previously in order to
describe the practical application of those identified theories and gain access to the previous

Research Design
Explanatory
Exploratory
Descriptive
Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
analysis. The deductive approach further includes more specifications and concepts of the
research study. However, based on the nature of the study, the most appropriate research
approach has been selected in the section as follows.
3.4.1 Justification for selection of the chosen Approach
The present study is related to the theories and concepts of RFID technology
application and use in the mobile e-commerce and more specifically in the retail sector in the
United Kingdom. In this relation, it is important to involve the relevant theoretical knowledge
in the research process. The various models of RFID impact in the retail sector can be
understood with the help of the deductive research approach in a much clearer and precise
manner. In addition to that, the inductive approach cannot be implemented because the topic
of the study does not involve any new concepts or theories. On the contrary, it focuses on
investigating and gaining deep insights on the already existing phenomena in a detailed
manner.
3.5 Research Design
According to McCusker and Gunaydin (2015), the research design selection is a
significant part in carrying out any research process. During the data collection process, it is
important to choose a suitable research design because it ensures that the obtained
information about the topic will ultimately answer the research questions and research
objectives as formulated in the initial stages of the research. The different types of research
designs are namely, explanatory, exploratory and descriptive.
Figure 3.1: Types of research design
(Source: Created by the learner)

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
The exploratory research design helps to acknowledge the different thoughts and
ideas needed in order to accomplish the research objectives. On the other hand, the
explanatory research design presents a detailed description of the occurrence of events or
incidents corresponding to the associated topic (Liamputtong, 2018). Due to the cause and
impact relationship or nature of this particular topic, the scope of the research is adequately
limited. At last, the descriptive research design allows an appropriate explanation of the
various events and incidents associated with the topic under consideration.
3.5.1 Justification for selection of the chosen Design
In the present study, implementing the explanatory research design was avoided
because the nature of the selected topic did not support the theory of longitudinal study. On
the other hand, the descriptive research design was helpful in terms of defining the detailed
process associated with the investigation of the RFID impacts in the retail industry in UK.
The influence of RFID technology on the mobile B2B e-commerce in UK retailing can be
properly scrutinized with the help of descriptive design as the selected research design.
3.6 Data Collection Method
The data collection method is important for gathering relevant and useful information
associated with the topic of concern. According to Kumar (2019), it is essential to gain
accurate results through the research process in order to enable standard format of the
research. There are different methods of data collection such as close-ended questions,
questionnaires via survey, interview sessions and so on.
3.6.1 Data Sources: Primary and Secondary
The various data sources are useful in terms of gaining deep insights into the research
topic in order to extract information in accordance with the requirements. In this aspect, there
are two types of data sources such as primary and secondary. According to Walliman (2017),
the primary data sources are dedicated in collecting raw data from direct sources as per the
exact requirements of the research topic. In other words, it is also referred to as first hand
data collection. Therefore, it requires adequate clarification validity and reliability. The raw
data needs to be catered from the surroundings. On the other hand, the secondary sources are
also mandatory in order to widen the ideas and concepts associated with the research topic.
Moreover, it enables better analysis of the various aspects of the topic with detailed
description.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
In present study involves specific primary sources for interaction with the selected
population and sample size to gain information fulfilling the research objectives. Apart from
that, the literature sources picked out for the collection of secondary information has
considered both offline and online sources such as books, e-books, journals, blogs, research
articles, peer reviewed papers, websites, thesis papers, previous research studies and
dissertations and others.
3.6.2 Data Techniques: Qualitative and Quantitative
The data analysis techniques can be broadly classified into two different types such as
the qualitative and the quantitative techniques. According to McCusker and Gunaydin (2015),
the qualitative data allows for unveiling sufficient theoretical concepts and thoughts about the
practical field leading to a more prominent understanding of the quantitative procedure. In
other words, the quantitative data collection applies mathematical and statistical concepts by
selecting and recording large data in sample sizes. In the present research, a mixed approach
involving both quantitative and qualitative techniques is applied. In the regard, the population
will be developed by selecting 40 retailers from UK who have adopted or planning to adopt
the RFID technology in their supply chain and e-commerce business, for the quantitative
process. Apart from that, 3 UK retail store managers will be approached in interview sessions
involving semi structured and open ended questions for the qualitative analysis portion.
3.7 Population and Sample
The research population, or in other words, a properly defined group of individuals
with certain similar characteristics will be considered for conducting the quantitative analysis.
In this study, the group of people considered as the research population essentially have
significant common characteristics. To be more precise, all the selected individuals come
from the UK retail industry. Moreover, the population or the large collection of UK retailers
(to be exact 40 individuals) will be asked to participate in a survey questionnaire for
conducting the quantitative research. The population of the study viz. the retailers of UK are
widespread within the nation and thus, have been approached via the internet. However, due
to limited and time constrained nature of the study, a smaller representation of the larger
population has been considered in order to build the sample size for this particular research.
3.7.1 Sampling Technique
The two major types of sampling techniques in research papers are the probability
sampling and the non-probability sampling. In this present research, the probability sampling

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
technique has been applied. The probability sampling gives known probability to each of the
members of the concerned population in terms of being selected in the study. To be more
precise, the simple random probability sampling will be adapted in the study where the
individual members of the population are selected purely and randomly based on a chance.
The study will involve survey questionnaire where the population will be asked to participate
and their response will be evaluated based in Likert scale (1 to 5 rating). On the other hand, 3
store managers in the UK retail sector will be considered for interview sessions depending on
their flexible timings and schedules.
3.7.2 Sample Size
The sample size chosen for the study is divided into two forms, for the quantitative
and qualitative data analysis purposes. In order to execute the quantitative research technique,
40 UK retailers have been selected that were asked for participating the online questionnaire
survey. On the contrary, 3 managers of the retail stores have been considered for conducting
the qualitative analysis technique with the help of interview sessions. Therefore, the total
sample size in the research is 43, which comprises both the populations for the qualitative and
the quantitative techniques.
3.8 Ethical Considerations
Throughout the research process, it is essential to follow a specific code of conduct in
order to acknowledge what is the right or wrong set of behaviour for conducting the study in
the desired way. Thus, in order to adopt the right set of behaviour throughout the research
process, ethical considerations is highly important. In this context, the impact of RFID on
mobile B2B e-commerce can be investigated following the below ethical considerations so
that the research can be standardized.
Informed consent: According to McCusker and Gunaydin (2015), it is highly crucial
in a research that involves primary data collection to ensure informed consent. It means that
the individuals of the population can practise self-determination in terms of associating
themselves with the study. In other words, in this study, the participants were not pressurized
or forced in any way to participate in the study. All the respondents voluntarily participated in
the questionnaire survey. In other words, the research has considered proper comprehension,
clear disclosure, competency as well as voluntariness throughout the course of the process.
Confidentiality and anonymity: The issue of respondent’s anonymity and
confidentiality is also appropriately considered in this study. Throughout the data collection

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
process, it has been ensured that the personal identities of the respondents were not disclosed
without their permission. To be more precise, the study does not indulge in any form of
physical and mental harassment in terms of disclosing the identities of the participants. Their
identities were concealed as per their requests. Along with that, the study has also considered
the social as well as psychological implications and hence, avoided any form of
confidentiality breach.
Privacy: Another ethical consideration is the respondent’s right to privacy. The study
has also made sure that no form of invasion of privacy has occurred throughout the research.
In other words, the respondent’s opinions, beliefs, attitudes and ideas were not shared
publicly without their informed consents.
Application of data: The collected data in the primary or quantitative technique is
solely used for academic purposes only. In other words, the data was not used by any form of
commercial applications and are strictly limited to academic use.
3.9 Limitations of the study
There are certain limitations to every study and this particular piece of work is no
exception. There are several limitations and restrictions associated with this study. In other
words, this section describes the restricted scope and ability of the present study. In this
respect, it is highly crucial to acknowledge the specific limitations that are directly or
indirectly related with the research problem.
Time constrained study: The research process is highly time limited due to its cross
sectional nature. As a result, the time constraint does not allow the analysis, elaboration and
explanation of all the aspects and dependencies involved with the topic under consideration.
Lack of previous studies: There are multiple studies previously executed in the
similar topic. Thus, the limited amount of secondary sources as available in this area did not
allow for a broad and detailed literature review chapter that can incorporate all the trivial
aspects and details involved in the topic in a direct and indirect manner.
Sample size: The study is time constrained and therefore, it is not possible to involve
a large sample size for building the population for the study. Instead of that, a smaller
representation of the population has been included in the research, which is relevant to the
research topic. To be more specific, 40 UK retailers have been selected for the quantitative

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
data collection and 3 UK retail store managers have been included in the qualitative interview
sessions.
Scope of discussions: Due to the time-limited nature of the study, the scope of
discussion about the findings and results is also limited. It was not possible to conduct in
depth discussion about certain related portions associated with the findings within the area of
the study.
Reliability: The reliability of the collected information cannot be guaranteed 100%
because it was not possible to identify any biasness or partiality if it exists in any of the
individuals in the overall population. However, the respondents were not influenced or
pressurized in any form or kind.
3.10 Time Horizons
The cross-sectional nature and time constrained nature of the study required the
development and application of a time table or Gantt chart. It is essential for easy completion
of the entire research work. According to Liamputtong (2018), the Gantt chart segregates the
key activities or tasks according to the structure of the study and thereby, reach successful
conclusion by achieving the research objectives.
Main activities/ stages Wee
k 1
Wee
k 2
Wee
k 3
Week
4
Wee
k 5
Week
6
Wee
k 7
Topic selection
Data collection from secondary sources
Creating layout
Literature review
Formation of the research plan
Research techniques selection
Primary data collection
Data collection, analysis, interpretation
Findings of the data
Conclusion of the study
Formation of rough draft
Submission of final work
Table 3.1: Timetable for the study

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
(Source: Created by the learner)
3.11 Summary
The research methodology chapter has explained the aspects and procedures involved
in the research such as the research philosophy, research design and the research approach.
For instance, the deductive approach has been applied with the mix of a descriptive research
design in order to conduct the data collection and data analysis process. To be more precise,
the primary and secondary data sources have been selected for the present study with a
positivism research approach. 40 UK retailers are selected as the quantitative population and
3 store managers are selected as the qualitative population.

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 4 – Data Analysis
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Quantitative Analysis
4.3 Qualitative Analysis
4.4 Summary

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 5 – Discussion
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Discussion
5.3 Summary

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
Chapter 6 – Conclusion and Recommendations
6.1 Conclusion
6.2 Linking with the objectives
6.3 Recommendations
6.4 Future scope of the study

Impact of RFID technology on mobile B2B e-Commerce: A case study in the UK retail
industry
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