Abstract

Local food producers need to integrate within networks of suppliers, distributor, customers and communityrepresentatives in order to increase their competitiveness. The main objective of this study was to evaluate theperformance of an integrated food distribution network (IFDN) in Sweden. Location and route analyses wereconducted using data of 11 producers, 149 customers and one distribution centre (DC). Geographic InformationSystem (GIS) tools and location analysis techniques were utilized. Route analyses were done considering onenon-integrated distribution system (scenario1) and three different integrated distributions systems (scenarios 2, 3and 4). The results of location analysis indicated that the existing DC is located at best position. When comparedto Scenario1, best improvements were gained in scenario3 i.e. up to 64% in number of routes, 53% in number ofvisits, 74% in transport distance and 63% in transport time. As a consequence, the emissions emanated fromvehicles were reduced. The analyses gave insights into main implications of IFDN such as implication forlogistics efficiency; implication for food and service quality; and implication for environmental sustainability oflocal food supply chain.

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