Ψυχρή εφοδιαστική αλυσίδα νωπών φρούτων και λαχανικών : η περίπτωση της νησιωτικής Ελλάδας

Λιάρου, Μαριάννα

Cold supply chain of fresh fruits and vegetables : the case of insular Greece

Master Thesis

Author

Λιάρου, Μαριάννα

Date

2024

Abstract

This paper examines, initially, the critical role of the supply chain, in general, in modern business activities and highlights its importance for economic development and environmental sustainability. It focuses on both the historical roots and the modern challenges and applications of the supply chain, providing a comprehensive view of the operations and strategies used to optimize supply flows. In particular, the analysis focuses on the cold supply chain and more specifically, that of fresh fruits and vegetables, resulting in primary research to examine the state of the cold supply chain of fresh fruits and vegetables in island Greece, listing the prevailing problems and proposing solutions for its optimization. Firstly, the study presents the evolution of the supply chain from a historical perspective, analyzing examples such as the strategies of Alexander the Great and operations during World War II. These examples demonstrate how the effective management of supply flows can determine the success or failure of major ventures. The paper then delves into modern supply chain structures and operations, focusing on the importance of inventory management, implementation of technology solutions and reverse supply chain. In particular, it highlights the importance of using warehouse management systems (WMS) and integrating technologies, such as QR code scanners to optimize processes. Climate change presents itself as one of the biggest challenges for the supply chain. The paper analyzes the impacts of greenhouse gases and climate change on logistics operations and suggests the use of sustainable practices and technologies to reduce the environmental footprint. At the same time, the impact of the supply chain on climate change is also reflected, as it itself contributes to its strengthening. Global analysis of the cold food supply chain highlights the trends and challenges faced by companies in this sector. The opportunities for improving the efficiency and capacity of cold stores through the adoption of innovative technological solutions are highlighted. A special chapter is devoted to the cold supply chain of fresh fruits and vegetables, with an emphasis on cold chain infrastructure and European Union legislation. The requirements for cold transport and the importance of maintaining the quality and safety of fresh products are analyzed. Finally, the paper concludes with proposals for improving the efficiency and sustainability of the fruit and vegetable cold supply chain in island Greece. The primary research focused on the particular conditions prevailing in the Greek islands and the challenges faced by businesses in the storage and distribution of fresh produce under controlled temperatures. The research findings highlighted the need to adopt advanced technologies, such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and telematics systems, to improve efficiency and reduce waste. In addition, strategic partnerships between producers, transporters and retailers, as well as the diversification of funding sources to support investments in cold chain infrastructure were proposed. Overall, effective supply chain management is seen as essential for businesses to succeed and adapt to modern environmental and economic challenges, ensuring the supply of high-quality fresh produce to consumers.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Κλιματική Κρίση και Τεχνολογίες Πληροφορικής και Επικοινωνιών / MSc in Climate Crisis and Information and Communication Technologies

Department

Σχολή Τεχνολογιών Πληροφορικής και Επικοινωνιών. Τμήμα Ψηφιακών Συστημάτων

Number of pages

144

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/16706
http://dx.doi.org/10.26267/unipi_dione/4128

Collections

Τμήμα Ψηφιακών Συστημάτων

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα