Exploring economic challenges and costs of food-sharing initiatives

Chapter 7, written by Vera Sadovska, Oksana Mont and Yuliya Voytenko Palgan, explores the economic sustainability of food-sharing initiatives (FSIs). Bringing together insights from a systematic literature review and empirical research in Barcelona, the chapter examines the economic challenges FSIs face, such as managing operational costs, obtaining funding and dealing with regulatory complexities. Some challenges are typical for all FSIs, while others are unique to different organisations and contexts. The chapter proposes a classification of costs associated with FSIs, including asset, operational, administrative, personnel, communication, public relations and legal compliance costs. Empirical findings highlight specific challenges in Barcelona's FSIs, emphasising the role of local government and stakeholders in supporting economic viability through grants, subsidies and partnerships. The chapter underscores the balance FSIs must maintain between social missions and financial sustainability and calls for innovative funding models and further research into economic strategies for FSIs in urban settings.