Value chain analysis: an approach to supply chain improvement in agri‐food chains

Purpose – To develop an innovative methodology to apply lean value chain improvement techniques to a complete supply chain for a food product from farm to consumer. Design/methodology/approach – Action research based on a UK case study involving farmers, a food processor and a major retailer. Findings – Value stream analysis (VCA) highlights significant opportunities to improve supply chain performance, profitability and relationships. Research limitations/implications – Lean/VCA methodologies can be readily applied to the retail and processor elements of food chains. However, further research is required to apply the concepts to farm operations. Practical implications – Subsequent to this research, VCA techniques have been increasingly adopted in UK agri‐food sectors including meat, dairy, cereals and horticulture. Originality/value – Application of lean concepts and VCA in the agri‐food sector. Development of a multi‐echelon supply chain improvement methodology.