SHORT SUPPLY CHAINS FROM AN INTERMEDIARY’S POINT OF VIEW

Abstract

In our increasingly globalized world, access to the right products and food is a central issue for all consumers. An alternative form of supply are local products, which can meet all or part of consumers’ needs. These local products are local specialties and non-mass products, which are tied to local features, technologies, culture, and identity. Supply chains can also help to improve the viability and sustainability of producers. In order for these short supply chains to work well, there is a need for continuous feedback and evaluation, therefore supplier evaluation forms could act as the starting point of these chains. The supplier evaluation form can serve to support and develop these supply chains at the local level. The aim of this study is to present a short supply chain from an intermediary’s point of view based on a case study. This method enables to gain a broader insight into the operation of local food chains. As the case study reveals, it is recommended for the members of these chains to apply supplier evaluation forms in order to maintain a better relationship between the partners. According to the experiences and conclusions a supplier evaluation system is defined by the authors.