While the agri-food industry is becoming increasingly competitive and global, consumers have a growing interest in local food. This report, prepared by the Georgie Morris Centre, assesses whether sufficient industry exists to establish a sustainable local and regional food and agri-product distribution initiative (LFDI) in the Niagara and Hamilton area.
The opportunities for local food are undeniable and growing. Establishing an LFDI is a viable way to tap into such opportunities. "
It confirms that a perceived need exists to establish a local food distribution system, but such a system needs to be managed well in order for it to be successful and sustainable. Using a Value Chain Analysis (VCA) approach, this report identifies the market opportunities and factors that will need to be addressed for the LFDI to be successful and provides recommendations for establishing it.
Recommendations include:
- Understand the three types of LFDIs - regional distribution hubs, piggybacking on leading suppliers, and establishing a local food network - that best suit the business environment.
- Identify the most appropriate leader(s) before establishing the LFDI.
- Target the correct markets first. - Strategically align the LFDI with existing systems.
- Determine its geographic scope and manageable expansion program.
- Determine the product mix.
- Establish a verifiable quality assurance system.
- Develop a strategic marketing plan.
The opportunities for local food are undeniable and growing. Establishing an LFDI is a viable way to tap into such opportunities.
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