Purpose: This work was conducted to identify the barriers that exists for FDMPB in Wales to obtain/maintain FSSC/TA.
Methods: A desk-based review identified and evaluated available schemes (n=30). Focus-groups and in-depth interviews of FDMPB with FSSC/TA (n=20), FDMPB without FSSC/TA (n=17), stakeholders (n=19), scheme auditors (n=9), and retail representative (n=3) identified barriers.
Results: The review identified accessible information, regarding requirements, operation, and associated costs, that were lacking and varied between schemes; highlighting differences in openness and transparency, particularly among privately operated schemes, which may hinder FDMPB selection of suitable and beneficial schemes relevant to the business. Barriers identified in focus-groups/interviews related to three key categories.: 1) ‘Time/cost/resources’, were barriers in terms of time to identify suitable schemes, cost of scheme implementation, capital expenditure, and resources to meet requirements for multiple schemes through duplication of obligations. 2) As for ‘Knowledge/skills’, the shortage of technical graduates was a major discussion point. Difficulties in meeting workforce training needs and the impact of senior management attitudes upon culture and commitment to schemes were, also, identified. 3) Under ‘Communication/information’, the miscommunications regarding the need of schemes by buyers was discussed, along with accessing information to select suitable schemess The number of schemes available exasperated this and discussions indicated the desire for scheme consolidation/harmonisation.
Significance: The research has identified barriers that exists for FDMPB in Wales trying to obtain/maintain FSSC/TA. Findings indicate the need for the development of support mechanisms to increase FSSC/TA uptake and accelerate food sector growth in alignment with Welsh Government aspirations.