The participation of the poor in Supermarkets and other Distribution Value Chains (MDB Bulletin)

Markets and Development MDB Bulletin No.7. February 2006

By offering convenience, standardized products, clear pricing and the allure of "modernity", supermarkets are taking an increasing share of a growing urban consumer market for food. From a base of zero in 1990, Viet Nam now has over 120 supermarkets and 9 wholesale centers. Supermarkets, through innovation and the achievement of economies of scale can have a strong impact on local supply chains because of their demands for large-scale, regular supply of standardized fruit and vegetable types. This presents both risks as well as opportunities for the poor. This MDB summarizes a recent study by M4P and the French-Vietnamese MALICA (Markets and Agriculture Linkages for Cities in Asia) consortium. The MDB discusses the impacts of supermarkets on the poor - in their roles as consumers, traders and farmers.

Available for download here in English and Vietnamese