Developing a Capabilities Matrix for Agri-Food Companies in Piemonte

The agri-food sector in Piemonte holds a pivotal position in Italy’ s food economy, distinguished by its culinary heritage and exceptional product quality. Home to 84 PDO and PGI-certified goods-including white truffles, fine wines (19 DOCG, 42 DOC), artisan cheeses, and traditional cured meats-the region combines rich gastronomic traditions with strong branding and international recognition, making it an exemplary setting for studying capability development and strategic positioning. Beyond its artisanal strengths, the sector also faces increasing pressure to enhance efficiency, innovation, and sustainability across its entire supply chain, from production to logistics and waste management. This study introduces a capabilities matrix to systematically assess competencies across the agri-food value chain, from production to waste management. Grounded in the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities framework, the matrix serves as an organisational tool that enables firms to leverage their strengths, address capability gaps, and optimise resource allocation. In doing so, it also facilitates cross-fertilisation of expertise, promotes knowledge transfer across the value chain, and supports sustainable growth and internationalisation. Notably, the matrix also functions as a strategic guide for investors, offering a structured overview of where key capabilities and growth opportunities reside across the ecosystem. The research follows a multi-stage methodology, integrating a literature review, sector analysis, ongoing empirical data collection and interview. Initial study highlights significant capability variations in product processes, certification compliance, and digital adoption (e.g., blockchain for traceability, IoT for efficiency). The paper also underscores the role of regional heritage, collaborative networks, and regulatory frameworks in shaping competitiveness. At this stage, data collection is ongoing, with structured surveys and interviews capturing insights from SMEs, trade agencies, and industry stakeholders. Preliminary analysis is based on responses from 42 firms, providing an initial but incomplete view of the sector’ s capability landscape. As more data is collected, the capabilities matrix will be refined to reflect broader patterns, ultimately offering a comprehensive framework for firms, investors, policymakers, and trade organisations to navigate supply chain challenges, pursue international expansion, and drive innovation-led growth. This research contributes to strategic management and regional development literature by offering a holistic, empirically grounded model that captures the interplay between traditional expertise, supply chain efficiencies, and modern competitive strategies in the agri-food sector. Future phases will validate the matrix, enhance its application, and develop actionable recommendations for sustainable and globally competitive growth.