Determinants of social perception and acceptance of livestock farming from a food retail perspective

Abstract

The transformation towards sustainable livestock farming requires fundamental sociopolitical changes embraced by all stakeholders. Since the food retail plays a pivotal role in sustainability transformation, incorporating its perspective is essential. This qualitative study presents the results of a survey conducted with representatives of the food retail sector, shedding light on the various faced challenges that influence its behavior and management. These challenges primarily encompass new consumer consumption patterns, digitalization, and political and legal developments. Methodologically, the findings underscore that industry-specific interviews provide an effective tool to capture the retail perspective in a nuanced manner and to give voice to this central stakeholder group.