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Networks in Socially Embedded Local Food Supply: The Case of Retailer Co-operatives

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Journal of Business Market Management

Abstract

This paper investigates network development in food retailing, in order to evaluate the role of retailer consumer co-operatives. Opportunity is seen to lie in niche (for example, local) markets and a social/ethical orientation. The method is single case and exploratory. Investigation shows that a co-operative can survive and add value as an alternative organizational form, when genuine social responsibility is experienced by a network consisting of the co-operative, its members, customers, suppliers and the community as a whole.

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Correspondence to Martin Hingley.

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Hingley, M. Networks in Socially Embedded Local Food Supply: The Case of Retailer Co-operatives. J Bus Mark Manag 4, 111–128 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12087-010-0036-2

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