Reference case

Where will our food come from in 2035?

Tillväxtverket and Kairos Future in foresight project

Where will our food come from in 2035? What trends are expected to shape the Swedish food system in the coming years? The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth has a coordinating responsibility for the authorities' work to develop the Swedish food system in a proactive way and wanted to get answers from a helicopter perspective.

Each agency works to monitor changes in the world around them within their respective areas of responsibility. But what was missing was an overall analysis of major changes that may affect the food system as a whole in the future. Particularly interesting were those changes whose consequences require cooperation between authorities to be managed in the best possible way. Kairos Future was tasked with providing a 'cloud-free' overview and deeper understanding of the trends that are expected to shape the food system in the coming years.

This environmental analysis complements the more specific trend analysis of food operators. It gives you the chance to zoom out, look up, and see the major systemic change we are facing. Just what we need for the continued long-term work on the food system!

Anna Eldestrand - coordinator at the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth for the national food strategy.

Kairos Future led a foresight project that used a variety of methods, such as trend research, AI-assisted data analysis and workshops. The work involved the systematic collection and analysis of data from various sources to identify emerging trends that could impact the food system.

We also leveraged the advanced data analysis tools of Dcipher Analytics to process large amounts of data and extract meaningful insights about food industry start-ups and R&D. This approach made it possible to identify unexpected patterns and to validate trends that were otherwise either overlooked or taken for granted. Finally, joint workshops with the Agency's Food System Coordination Committee provided a platform for stakeholders from across the food industry to come together and share their insights and perspectives on the future of the industry. Actors from the following organizations participated: the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth, the Swedish Board of Agriculture, the Swedish National Food Agency, SLU, Business Sweden, Vinnova, Formas, LRF, Svensk Dagligvaruhandel, Svensk Handel, Livsmedelsföretagen, Visita and several regional representatives.

Armed with new knowledge, participants were able to develop insights into what is needed to create a more adaptable, flexible and responsive food system. The project also supported Tillväxtverket's mission to promote closer collaboration with stakeholders from across the industry, which is crucial to ensure a sustainable and resilient food system for Sweden.

"We are so pleased with your work on the report, fantastic job!"

Marie Persson, coordinator at the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth for the national food strategy.

Subjects: Energy & Environment Consumer, Retail & Innovation Scenarios, Trends & Megatrends Technology & Innovation Strategy, Organization & Management