Creating international competitiveness through supply chain management: Danish pork

Claims that by most conventional input cost measures, the Danish pork industry looks very uncompetitive when compared to its rivals in international markets, yet Danish exports account for between 20 and 30 per cent of global pork trade. Explores the reasons for this success, finding answers in the organisation of the Danish pork supply chain. Four farmer‐owned co‐operatives account for virtually all pig slaughtering and processing in Denmark which is highly technologically advanced. The pivotal role of the umbrella organisation, Danske Slagterier, in co‐ordinating market research, genetic and meat processing research is explored. Finally, an assessment is made of the competitive strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing the Danish pork supply chain.