Plurality in different groupings: sugarcane supply in Brazil

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the motivations for the existence of plural forms in the sugarcane agribusiness in the western region of São Paulo state, Brazil, particularly in the supply of sugarcane to sugar and/or alcohol plants.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted by applying interviews with the individuals in charge of the supply from a group of ten plants in this region that compete both for land for planting and for sugarcane itself.

Findings

The findings show that plurality was observed in different levels of analysis (clusters): first, the plurality of transactions of sugarcane with different agents; second, plurality in hybrid arrangements or contracts; and finally, plurality in the same transaction. The reasons for the maintenance at Level 1 are various but, balancing the risks of the structures was an important motivator for this decision, while at Levels 2 and 3, the plural forms proved transitory, given the time of the contract and payment methods.

Originality/value

One of the contributions of this study is to determine that generalizations about the transience or stability of plural forms are not appropriate. Another contribution of the research is the observation that in São Paulo’s western region the singular forms of governance in sugarcane supply are not the most common for entrepreneurs who wish to work in sugar and/or alcohol production. Plural forms, as previously postulated in the literature, are more common.

Citation

Feltre, C. and Paulillo, L.F.d.O.e. (2015), "Plurality in different groupings: sugarcane supply in Brazil", British Food Journal, Vol. 117 No. 9, pp. 2265-2281. https://doi.org/10.1108/BFJ-03-2015-0091