Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyse the concept of supply chain collaboration and to provide an overall framework that can be used as a conceptual landmark for further empirical research. In addition, the concept is explored in the context of agri---food industry and particularities are identified. Finally, the paper submits empirical evidence from an exploratory case study in the agri---food industry, at the grower---processor interface, and information regarding the way the concept is actually applied in small medium---sized enterprises (SMEs) is presented.Design/methodology/approach: The paper employed case study research by conducting in---depth interviews in the two companies.Findings: Supply chain collaboration concept is of significant importance for the agri---food industry, however, some constraints arise due to the nature of industry's products, and the specific structure of the sector. Subsequently, collaboration in the supply chain is often limited to operational issues and to logistics---related activities. Research limitations/implications:Research is limited to a single case study and further qualitative testing of the conceptual model is needed in order to adjust the model before large scale testing. Practical implications:Case study findings may be transferable to other similar dual relationships at the grower---processor interface. Weaker parts in asymmetric relationships have opportunities to improve their position, altering the dependence balance, by achieving product/process excellence.Originality/value: The paper provides evidence regarding the applicability of the supply chain collaboration concept in the agri---food industry. It takes into consideration not relationships between big multinational companies, but SMEs.Citation: A. Matopoulos, M. Vlachopoulou, V. Manthou, B. Manos, (2007) "A conceptual framework for supply chain collaboration: empirical evidence from the agri---food industry", Supply

Purpose -The main objectives of the paper are to identify the needs in data that are considered as fundamental for the efficient food traceability and to introduce a generic framework (architecture) of traceability data management that will act as guideline for all entities/food business operators involved. Design/methodology/approach -The traceability system introduced is based on the implementation of XML (eXtensible Markup Language) technology. In the first stage, the necessary traceability data are identified and categorized. In the second stage, the selected data are transformed and inserted into a five-element generic framework/model, using PML (Physical Markup Language), which is a standard technology of XML. Findings -The assessment of information communication and diffusion underlines that the particular model is simple in use and user-friendly, by enabling information flow through conventional technologies.Practical implications -The main feature of this framework is the simplicity in use and the ability of communicating information through commonly accessible means such as the internet, e-mail, and cell phones. This makes it particularly easy to use, even when it comes to the base of the supply chains (farmers, fishermen, cattle breeders, etc). Originality/value -An integrated traceability system must be able to file and communicate information regarding product quality and origin, and consumer safety. The main features of such a system include adequate "filtering" of information, information extracting, from already existed databases, harmonization with international codification standards, internet standards and up to date technologies. The framework presented in this paper fulfills all the above features.

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Conservation scientists, national governments, and international conservation groups seek to devise, and implement, governance strategies that mitigate human impact on the environment. However, few studies to date have systematically investigated the performance of different systems of governance in achieving successful conservation outcomes. Here, we use a newly-developed analytic framework to conduct analyses of a suite of case studies, linking different governance strategies to standardized scores for delivering ecosystem services, achieving sustainable use of natural resources, and conserving biodiversity, at both local and international levels. Our results: ( i ) confirm the benefits of adaptive management; and ( ii ) reveal strong associations for the role of leadership. Our work provides a critical step toward implementing empirically justified governance strategies that are capable of improving the management of human-altered environments, with benefits for both biodiversity and people.

PurposeIn this paper, the key drivers and constraints for implementing traceability are examined in the Greek fresh produce supply chain. The main objective is to identify the main factors affecting the implementation of traceability schemes, under the current supply chain structure and evaluate the theoretical framework identified in the literature.Design/methodology/approachA specific executive research was conducted, including interviews with key representatives of the sector. The scope of the research was to collect qualitative data with the aid of an unstructured questionnaire with no close‐ended questions. The research sample included 22 agricultural cooperatives and private packinghouses located in northern Greece where the core value adding activities of the fresh produce supply chain are taking place. Northern Greece is of high importance for the examined sector as a high percentage of all value adding activities, from production to distribution, are taking place within this region.FindingsIn the fresh produce supply chains ephemeral dynamic collaborations prevail which do not allow particular transparency with regard to the exchange of information between their members. Severe inequities recognized between supply chain members regarding their ability to imply traceability systems effectively, their current technological and operational status and the availability to undertake the cost of investment in such systems. Tight profit margins and inadequate knowledge on potential benefits of traceability systems are reported as some of the main factors that hinder investments on sophisticated traceability schemes. Adequate labeling automation with the implementation of machine‐readable labeling technologies and the introduction of web‐based technologies as a low cost solution are estimated to improve fresh produce traceability and logistics efficiency.Originality/valueWithin a limited number of research papers on fresh produce traceability, there is no reference to the Greek produce sector. Thus, this paper progresses knowledge of the Greek produce industry regarding perspectives and key drivers for traceability implementation, supported by the thorough review of the literature.