Producers’ Strategies for an Italian Protected Designation of Origin Product. Between Economic Crisis and Quality Consumers’ Expectations - the Short Food Supply Chains

Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC) are considered a tool for promoting local economy and meeting the quality requirements of local consumers. This paper analyses the case of one Geographical Indication (GI) world-wide marketed product also traded through Short Food Supply Chains. The case of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product Parmigiano Reggiano shows that SFSC is an important trade channel not only for consumers but also for rural development. Parmigiano Reggiano dairies involved in SFSCs are more resilient compared to other dairies without direct sales. The case also shows that a strong coordination and governance action by the PDO-Consortium is required