Optimization of a Sustainable an‎d Resilient Pharmaceutical Distribution Network Using a Multi-Objective Inventory–Routing Model with Clustering an‎d Blockchain-Based Transparency

1/18/2027 12:00:00 AM

Due to the strategic nature of pharmaceutical products an‎d their direct impact on public health, pharmaceutical supply chains require distribution networks that, in addition to economic efficiency, exhibit adequate levels of resilience, sustainability, an‎d transparency. The objective of this study is to develop an integrated optimization model for the design of a pharmaceutical distribution network by simultaneously considering cost, shortage, an‎d network transparency, as well as eva‎luating network resilience under predefined disruption scenarios. In this research, a multi-objective mathematical model based on the Inventory–Routing Problem (IRP) is proposed for a three-echelon network consisting of suppliers, distribution centers, an‎d deman‎d points. The objectives of the model include minimizing total network costs, minimizing drug shortages, an‎d maximizing network transparency. To reduce problem complexity an‎d improve computational efficiency, a multi-variable clustering approach with spatial constraints is employed, in which deman‎d points are clustered based on their distance from distribution centers an‎d deman‎d levels using a weighted scheme. This approach constitutes one of the main innovations of the study. The multi-objective function is transformed into a single-objective function using a weighted-sum method, an‎d the network performance is eva‎luated through sensitivity analysis under four disruption scenarios, including deman‎d shock, logistical disruption, temporal disruption, an‎d combined disruption. The results indicate that the strategy of strengthening distribution centers by increasing their capacity an‎d resources yields the lowest objective function value, the lowest average shortage, an‎d the shortest delivery delay, an‎d is therefore identified as the most effective resilience strategy for the pharmaceutical distribution network. Furthermore, blockchain technology is incorporated into the model as a complementary information layer in distribution centers equipped with blockchain an‎d Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure, with the aim of enhancing network transparency, which is reflected in the structure of the model an‎d the objective function. The results of a case study conducted at a reputable pharmaceutical distribution company in East Tehran demonstrate that, compared to the current system, the proposed model can reduce total distribution network costs by approximately 10%, while simultaneously improving service level, resilience, an‎d network transparency.

طراحي شبكه توزيع‌ دارو , تاب‌آوري , پايداري , مسئله موجودي–مسيريابي , بلاك‌چين , خوشه‌بندي

Pharmaceutical Distribution Network Design , Resilience , Sustainability , Inventory–Routing Problem , Blockchain , Clustering

Alireza Nazari Rad

Dr. Farnaz Barzinpour