Acting under spatial restrictions: success factors of German local food-marketing networks

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify success variables for local food networks in Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a written questionnaire sent to local food networks and statistical analysis to explain success indicators for networks.

Findings

The analysis shows that vertical penetration, i.e. the inclusion of many different sectors in the network, increases the success of the network in terms of turnover. Another factor increasing the success of a network is whether small food enterprises like bakers or butchers are in charge of it.

Research limitations/implications

There is a difficulty in identifying general success factors of networks with different objectives.

Originality/value

This is the first analysis integrating vertical integration and quantitative integration as success factors.

Citation

Heer, I. and Mann, S. (2010), "Acting under spatial restrictions: success factors of German local food-marketing networks", British Food Journal, Vol. 112 No. 3, pp. 285-293. https://doi.org/10.1108/00070701011029156