69169 - Economics Of Quality Systems In The Agri-Food Systems

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student knows the main categories of costs and benefits of the quality systems in the agri-food system and the main techniques for their economic evaluation. The student is able to use such techniques to evaluate the profitability of adoption of quality systems both in a private and public perspective.

Course contents

Economic aspects of the development of new products in the agri-food system. The product concept. Consumer orientation. development strategies

The business plan and the business model canvas for the development of new agri-food products. The entrepreneurial project, mission and vision. Market potential. Competitive scenario. Value proposition. Marketing activities. Activity plan. Saff.

The economic-financial evaluation. Investment analysis. Cash flows and identification and quantification of costs and benefits associated with the investment. The time-money relationship. Choice and calculation of investment criteria (VAN, TRI, payback period, breakeven point). Sensitivity analysis.

Readings/Bibliography

Grunert, K. G., & van Trijp, H. C. (2014). Consumer-oriented new product development. Encyclopedia of agriculture and food systems, 2, 375-386.

Rudder, A., Ainsworth, P., & Holgate, D. (2001). New food product development: strategies for success?. British Food Journal, 103(9), 657-671.

and other readings/online resources suggested by the teacher during the course.

Teaching methods

Face to face lectures

In-classe exercises

Project work and assignments

Assessment methods

The assessment method is based on:
1) a "project work" (individual or in a group);
2) an oral interview.

1) The project work will consist in the drafting of a business plan relating to the introduction of a new product on the market (that students attending the course will be able to develop and discuss with the teacher and the class during the lectures).

The business plan includes two documents:
1.1 a text document describing what is expected to be achieved with the new business (according to the model provided on the Virtual platform;
1.2 a compiled excel file (according to the model provided on the Virtual platform.

These documents must be sent by e-mail to the teacher at least 3 working days before the oral interview.

2) The interview will last approximately 20 minutes and includes the discussion of the project work and 2 further questions on subjects of the exam programme.

Eligible students may contact the teacher to possibly agree a date for examination other than the official ones.

Teaching tools

Power point presentations

Readings from scientific articles

Office hours

See the website of Luca Camanzi