Retail Alternatives: Informal food access and remote island communities

The informal food economy (IFE) serves a critical function in numerous countries by facilitating food access and security, while also contributing to choice enhancement, dietary improvement, and the generation of household income and employment opportunities. Although existing scholarship has predominantly focused on the role of IFEs in developing economies, their significance within more developed markets remains less explored. This paper addresses this gap by examining the operational dynamics of the IFE in relation to food access and security within a specific Scottish Island group. Data collection included field observations and interviews with residents, crofters, local retailers, community groups and local councillors.
Despite the participation of these islands in a developed economy, issues pertaining to food access and security have previously been recognized as problematic for certain consumer groups and communities. Notably, the expansion of the formal food sector and the proliferation of online delivery services have alleviated concerns regarding food access for many island residents. However, this should not overshadow the ongoing relevance of informal food access in fostering social and community connections.
Furthermore, the research identifies a growing dependence on a limited number of national multiple retailers with supply chains linked to the mainland. This trend raises concerns about the potential vulnerability of food security to future market externalities. The concentration of supply within a few major retailers increases the susceptibility of the food system to disruptions caused by factors such as extreme weather events, transportation issues, or economic fluctuations.
While advancements in the formal food sector and online delivery services have addressed some of the challenges related to food access and security in the studied Scottish Island group, the significance of the informal food economy remains evident. The continued role of Consumer Co-operatives, Food Banks, and other informal food networks underscores the importance of diversified food systems resilient to external shocks. Moreover, the emerging reliance on a handful of national retailers highlights the need for proactive measures to safeguard food security against potential disruptions in the future.