Triggers and processes of value creation in Australia's chicken meat industry

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and explain the triggers and processes of value creation in Australia's chicken meat supply chains. This industry was chosen as the critical case due to the rapid rise in poultry meat consumption in western markets. This study addresses the lack of understanding about the transformation of agri‐food supply chains to provide a chronological and historical explanation of patterns of value creation in this industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A historical case study approach was chosen. Multiple primary and secondary sources were collated and analysed to describe events in narrative form.

Findings

Analysis of the patterns of value creation revealed four major phases in the evolution of Australia's chicken meat supply chains. In each phase a dominant form of value creation was identified and the triggers that facilitated the transition between phases are described.

Research limitations/implications

As the study is confined to a single industry, further research in other settings is needed to verify the patterns described. Since agri‐food supply chains are dynamic they should be continuously monitored to identify trends that resemble previous triggers and processes, or manifest as novel ones.

Originality/value

This study takes a historical perspective to identify the triggers and patterns of value creation in Australia's chicken meat supply chains. A schema of phases of value creation is offered that can potentially be applied by practitioners in other industries to diagnose the possible outcomes of prior events and actions by supply chain members.

Citation

Insch, A. (2008), "Triggers and processes of value creation in Australia's chicken meat industry", British Food Journal, Vol. 110 No. 1, pp. 26-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/00070700810844777