Qualifikationsarbeit
Emerging Sustainability Challenges in the Food Retail Sector
Profilfeld
A more sustainable food system is an essential component of a successful transition to a sustainable society and economy. Retailers play a crucial role in changing the current food system. Their bargaining power, size and strategic position as the connecting element between the different actors along the supply chain enable retailers to implement more sustainable production and consumption patterns. This thesis investigates the ways in which retailers can contribute to a sustainable transformation of the food system. The focus is on food trends that will be most relevant for the food system until 2030. Sustainability challenges emerging from these food trends were identified by applying a social-ecological framework of analysis underpinned by expert interviews. Subsequently, sustainability strategies and measures taken by food retailers in Europe were evaluated in terms of whether they enable a successful response to the identified challenges. Lastly, recommendations of action for food retailers are derived.