The Impact of Covid-19 in the Agri-Food Companies in Extremadura (Spain)

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic is having an economic impact, previously non-existent, on the world economy. The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on agri-food companies in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura (Spain). A qualitative methodology is used through interviews with 15 managers of agri-food companies and a technology center for the period February 2020 - January 2021. The results reveal the existence of differentiated impacts, both financial and operational, depending, principally, on the nature of the products, the changes generated in consumer behavior, and mobility problems. Likewise, changes were observed in the processes and procedures in the companies to overcome the obstacles imposed by the new situation. In conclusion, the change in environmental conditions, as well as the characteristics of the spread of the pandemic, has impacted the strategies, behavior, processes, dynamics and results of organizations regardless of their size and the nature of their work product or service.