Research agenda for SMEs in electronic platforms for the European food industry

Purpose This paper sets out to provide a consensus position on the potential for the inclusion of small businesses in electronic platforms in the food industry. Design/methodology/approach The consensus was derived through a Delphi‐type series of questions in an open forum of academics and industrialists across Europe. Findings The consensus reached was of the proven benefits of electronic platforms for small businesses and the need for further research to assess how small businesses can incorporate electronic traceability and supply chain management systems into their existing operations. Practical implications Electronic platforms are spreading rapidly in the food industry. However, there is some concern that small businesses are not aware of the potential for electronic supply chains such as the potential that electronic traceability offers smaller networks to supply highly demanded food quality attributes such as organic production and regional foods. Originality/value The paper addresses the highly topical issue of food origin with a new approach to the supply technologies behind the product.