French artisan food co-operatives at the intersection between the artisan dimension and industrial logic: A two case study analysis

Adderley, Simon; Gray, Lee

Journal Article

French artisan food co-operatives at the intersection between the artisan dimension and industrial logic: A two case study analysis

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to focus on how French cooperatives have balanced both an artisan dimension (producer identity and product values) and an industrial logic (consumer demands and governance strategy) in order to develop sustainable business models. The paper focuses on a framework of four interdependent and interconnected areas which create a bridge for comparison: Consumer Demand, Producer Identity, Production Values, and Cooperative Governance. This was examined by means of two French food manufacturing cooperatives. Both gained national attention by converting commercially failing factories into sustainable economic and employment generators based on artisanal-style and social values, within a cooperative governance structure. The findings suggest there was a clear interconnectivity of the four areas within the French cooperative businesses. Producer identity and production values most closely interlinked, and consumer Demand was closely associated as well. The cooperative structure was a key driver for workers but not consumers.