Transforming Agricultural Supply Chain Challenges into Operational Strategies: Insights from an Agri-Machinery Company

Abstract

The paper proposes a process to translate systemic grand challenges of agricultural supply chain into company specific operationalization actions. The objectives of this study are to elucidate the requisite stages of the process, delineate the specific aspects addressed by each step, and present potential methodologies employed throughout the process. The approach adopted in this paper is inherently constructive, employing a mixed methodology that integrates various methods and tools. Furthermore, 90 challenges of agricultural supply chain are delineated and structured around 6 themes. The strength of evidence of the challenges is then analyzed with a model that takes into account the number and types of references in which the challenges are mentioned and found, respectively. The study identified 21 challenges as “evident” and proceeded to the next step for quality function deployment. Finally, operationalization actions, including cooperating with other stakeholders of the supply chain, regulators, and farmers were determined to tackle critical first mile challenges for the case company. The paper makes a distinctive contribution by presenting a comprehensive framework for translating systemic agricultural supply chain challenges into actionable steps, uniquely addressing the intersection of intricate challenges and sustainability imperatives. This novel approach does not only advance the understanding of operationalization but also underscores the vital role of sustainability in navigating the complexities of modern agricultural supply chains.

Keywords

• agriculture
• first mile
• supply chain
• sustainability
• quality function deployment