Constructing a Trans-Regional Distribution System Based on a Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

New entrant farmers are attracting attention as key players in sustainable agriculture. However, owing to their small-scale production and geographical dispersion, they often have limited access to distribution systems. This study investigates the practices of constructing a vision-based system, focusing on Sakanotochu Ltd., a company that has established a distribution system for new entrants. We demonstrate how the company’s founder developed the vision and how this vision was translated into standards for agricultural products and the Box scheme. These standards include input standards and explain how to interpret the environmental impacts and images of preferred producers. In addition, the Box scheme allows various small-quantity procurements and promotes consumer understanding. That the scheme embodies this vision is apparent from the fact that the partner farmers are mainly individual producers, especially new entrants.