Market access and competitiveness issues for food SMEs in Europe's lagging rural regions (LRRs)

Abstract

Purpose – Assessment of food supply chains from small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is of central importance to lagging rural regions (LRRs) across Europe given the significance of such enterprises to rural areas. This paper aims to examine the most important influences on the food supply chain across 12 European LRRs and then examine the impact of a number of supply chain issues on food SMEs in Ireland. Design/methodology/approach – A Delphi study, complimented by literature reviews followed by in-depth interviews, were used to examine the current and future factors influencing the operations of food supply chains relating to food SMEs in selected LRRs in Europe. Findings – Consumers, followed by retailers, were identified as the most important influences on food supply chains across the 12 European LRRs studied. Primary producers were seen as being in a very weak position. Of the supply chain issues examined in Ireland, food safety, distribution and innovation were identified as key issues in market access and competitiveness. Food safety appears to be an “order qualifier” rather than “order winner” with other sources of differentiation featuring as potential order winners. Originality/value – This research has identified a range of difficulties, including finding and managing intermediaries, surrounding distribution for food SMEs in LRRs. Significant training and other assistance is required to support food SMEs in LLRs.