Implementation of Blockchain Technology in the Tourism Industry: A Systematic Literature Review

Purpose/objectives: in the last ten years, the implementation of blockchain (BC) technology offers many opportunities for all economic sectors such as finance, health, trade, agriculture, etc. This technology based on distributed digital ledger collects and stores data permanently and in an ordered way, allowing stakeholders to have access to information cryptologically protected. Since 2014, the blockchain technology has been introduced in the tourism industry with the goal to improve this sector. In this contest the present study intents to: 1) carrying out a systematic literature review (SLR) on the implementation of BC technology in tourism economic sector; 2) providing an analysis of its advantages and future challenges. ‐ Design/methodology: The SLR was conducted using detailed criteria to identify scientific papers. Moreover, specific keywords and databases were chosen. The time frame considered included the years 2017–2021 (31st March). ‐ Findings: the review analysis indicates that the use of BC technology contributes to increase transparency and safety of the services provided and decrease cost above all of tourist. However, some challenges remain open which further studies could try to solve. ‐ Originality/value: to date the academic literature published on this topic is limited, so these aspects have not yet been adequately analyzed. Therefore, the present article intends to show an update framework about BC technology and its impact on tourism industry. ‐ Possible practical implications: results might be helpful for stakeholders understand the potential impact of this technology on the business tourism ecosystem and for scholars to better define future research areas and trend less explored in this field.