The impact of Industry 4.0 on procurement and logis-tics departments – fourth industrial revolution or just a buzzword? An exploratory research in the German manufacturing sector

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify whether Industry 4.0 is just a buzzword or a fourth industrial revolution. Since many studies only focus on the production area, this study aims to investigate process on distinct company func-tions, which are namely procurement and logistics departments. Methodology: The study is mainly interpretive in nature. Therefore, an explora-tive mono-method case study is applied. Secondary data were collected deduc-tively. However, primary data have been gathered through unstructured inter-views with industry experts. Findings: This research has shown, that Industry 4.0 is not only a buzzword. It is a very important development worldwide. Industry 4.0 is a term for the ad-vanced digitalization going on in nowadays businesses. The research process has shown that Germany is confronted with a gap in the digitalization process compared with other countries. At this time, Industry 4.0 can only be seen as an evolution, because it is a “creeping process”. Therefore, the conclusion is that in Germany Industry 4.0 is an evolution but should be a revolution to ensure the international competitiveness of German manufacturing companies. Practical Implications: Based on the result, that Industry 4.0 should rather be a revolution instead of an evolution, this study aims to investigate reasons for the backlog of digitalization in German companies. Subsequently, solution ap-proaches are developed. Originality / Value: Previous studies have mainly considered the production area. This study contributes to academic and business insights as this study con-siders also procurement and logistics departments. By gaining information from professionals through unstructured interviews, new insights in the Industry 4.0 area appeared. Further Research: This study focuses on German manufacturing companies. Further research can expand the research scope by considering companies in other countries. In addition, more company functions and other supply chain members, e. g. suppliers or service providers, need to be considered