Striving for sustainable value chain establishment: a multiple feasibility analysis approach

Purpose – Over the last decade, value chain for development has shown its bias towards global value chain approaches. This article proposes a holistic framework to carry out feasibility analysis for the establishment of a value chain. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative research approach was used to collect and analyse data from a wide range of stakeholders potentially involved in establishment of a global cut-foliage value chain based on wild harvesting of ornamental ferns in New Caledonia. Findings – Multiple feasibility analyses revealed issues that need to be addressed, priorities for different stakeholders and possible ways forward in the establishment of a value chain. Research limitations/implications – The framework supports businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, donors and governments in proceeding with value chain establishment with significant consideration of social, economic and environmental drivers for sustainability. Originality/value – Relevant concepts in several fields are integrated into a single framework that can guide feasibility analysis of value chain establishment.