Is the logistical engagement of stakeholders in short food chains a crucible of alternativity?

TL;DR

This study explores how logistical engagement influences the choice of short food supply chain points of sale, emphasizing relational proximity and actor involvement as key factors in developing sustainable alternative food systems.

Contribution

It provides empirical evidence on consumer and farmer preferences for SFSC points of sale, highlighting the role of logistical engagement and relational proximity in fostering alternative food systems.

Findings

Consumers prefer alternative SFSC points like farms and associations, even with longer travel times.

Farmers value SFSC points, especially those already engaged in SFSCs.

Supermarkets serve as entry points for new SFSC participants.

Abstract

In response to the negative environmental, social, and economic externalities of the dominant food model, a consensus is emerging on the need to develop alternative food systems capable of facilitating a transition to a more sustainable model. Among these alternatives, short food supply chains (SFSCs) are identified as potential crucibles of alternativity. Defined as distribution channels with a maximum of one intermediary between producer and consumer, SFSCs can contribute to the reterritorialization of food flows and the creation of relational and geographical proximities among food chain actors. This study examines how logistical engagement translates into the choice of SFSC points of sale by consumers and farmers. It evaluates this engagement through the travel times farmers and consumers are willing to endure to sell or buy at an SFSC point of sale, and the prices they are willing to accept or pay for SFSC products. A discrete choice experiment conducted in 2022 with 154 farm managers and 1022 consumers analyzed preferences regarding types of points of sale, sales prices, travel times, and relational proximity. The results show that consumers engaged in SFSCs favour alternative points of sale such as farms and associations, even for longer travel times. Farmers also value these points of sale, with logistical engagement more pronounced among those already marketing through SFSCs. Supermarkets appear less attractive to alternative profiles but serve as entry points for new participants in SFSCs. Relational proximity between farmers and consumers is important, with a preference for direct exchanges during sales. This study highlights the importance of actor engagement in SFSCs and offers perspectives for developing alternative logistics by valuing relational proximity and using conventional points of sale as entry points for new actors in the SFSCs.