Identificación y caracterización de los eslabones de comercialización, distribución y consumo en la cadena de suministro agroalimentaria de la región andina ecuatoriana, con enfoque en la industria 5.0: caso de estudio

Abstract

This research analyzes the marketing, distribution and consumption links of an agrifood supply chain in the Andean region of Ecuador, specifically in the province of Azuay, canton Cuenca, with the purpose of evaluating them under the principles of Industry 5.0: sustainability, resilience and human-centeredness. For this purpose, a mixed approach methodology was applied, with an applied, descriptive and exploratory character. The study combined a systematic literature review, validation of indicators using the Delphi technique, prioritization with the Pick-Chart model and collection of primary information through structured surveys. For the analysis, the VSM and SCOR models were incorporated to map processes, identify key actors and understand the operational dynamics of the chain. The results show a limited implementation of the principles of Industry 5.0, with a high level of informality in commercial relations (83.9%) and little use of intelligent technologies (only 16.1% of the actors). However, organizational strengths and willingness to change were also identified, which opens up opportunities to improve the system's performance through training strategies, progressive digitalization and institutional strengthening. Overall, this study contributes to the design of more adaptive, humane and sustainable agrifood chains, providing technical inputs for strengthening the AGRO 5 project and for future interventions in similar rural territories.