Pig farming in Austria faces numerous challenges, including regulatory uncertainties, societal criticism, and economic pressures. Particularly, the lack of investment willingness and the decline in pig-farming operations threaten the future of pig barns and their associated supply industry. The objective of this study is to explore alternative agricultural uses for pig barns and analyze their implications for barn equipment suppliers. The study combines an extensive literature review with a practice-oriented case study. First, scientific sources were analyzed to identify potential uses and examine the current market for pig farming. In the second step, a case study was conducted focusing on the company Stallprofi TH GmbH to derive concrete strategic adjustments. Tools such as SWOT analysis, Business Model Canvas, and Porter's Five Forces were utilized for this purpose. The study identifies several alternative uses for pig barns, including hemp cultivation, insect farming, and aquaculture. These options offer farmers new income streams and reduce reliance on traditional pig farming. At the same time, the findings suggest that barn equipment suppliers need to consider strategic diversification to remain economically competitive. The case study confirms that innovative business models based on multifunctional uses can provide a sustainable future for the industry. Finally, the study provides practical recommendations to leverage the identified opportunities for both farmers and barn equipment suppliers.
| Date of Award | 2024 |
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| Original language | German (Austria) |
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| Supervisor | Albert Mayr (Supervisor) |
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- Agricultural Management and Innovations
Alternative agrarische Nutzungsmöglichkeiten eines Schweinestalls und die Implikation auf Schweinestallausstatter
Neubacher, J. (Author). 2024
Student thesis: Master's Thesis