Modeling the Supply Chain Network Evolution of a Food Banking Network

Research on food banks often overlooks the growth and structure of these networks. This study analyses how a food bank’s supply chain network (SCN) will evolve, and examines the implications these changes will have on the overall design using real-world food banking data. It employs agent-based modeling and a minimum cost flow network model to explore different scenarios. The study suggests that allowing warehouses to connect with collection points outside their province could reduce transport costs by 33%. A universal warehouse strategy does not adequately address food insecurity among specific vulnerable groups, as their unique environments require a more tailored approach.