Balancing costs and benefits in the food redistribution supply chain

Purpose
The study aims to enhance understanding of the equilibrium between benefits and costs in food redistribution supply chains. This understanding is crucial for ensuring the viability of these supply chains, which will enable the strive to deliver social and environmental benefits.
Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive single case study, incorporating interviews, observations, workshops and focus groups with diverse supply chain actors, was employed.
Findings
The innovative distribution design of the case initiative, that encompass various channels (food bank, social supermarkets and public restaurants), facilitates a comprehensive perspective on the well-being and added value produced. Based on a business model approach suggestions for mechanisms that balance cost benefit are proposed.
Research limitations/implications
The research introduces novel well-being and added value not previously identified in the context of food redistribution. It highlights the inequitable cost-benefit distribution among actors within and outside the supply chain and proposes mechanisms for achieving balance.
Originality/value
This study enriches logistics and supply chain management research by spotlighting social non-profit organizations, underscoring the significance of logistics and supply chain expertise in this context.