Supply Chain and Value Added on Custard Apple ‘Phetch Pakchong’ in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This study was mixed methods research using an in-depth interview with five farmers who grew custard apple ‘Phetch Pakchong’, in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, using snowball sampling. It aimed to study structure of the supply chain, operational process, cost and cost reduction method for ‘Petch Pakchong’ farmers. In addition, online questionnaires collected data from 101 undergraduate students in Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, Bang Khen Campus in order to find the ways to add value to custard apple. The findings were; 1) the structure of supply chain included suppliers, farmers, and distribution channels within domestic and international consumers, 2) process operations were production factors providing, planting, maintenance, harvest, and distribution, 3) the average total cost of ‘Phet Pakchong’ was 13,726.70 Baht/year/rai, 4) inner packaging that can add value from normal plastic bags are clear top paper box with value added 32.23 Baht/kg value and 5) specific individual packaging that can add value from regular fresh custard apple were full-effect mesh foam wrapping and branding with value added 10.90 Baht/piece. Finally, the individual package of mesh foam units with different colors had no statistically different effect on the price. The farmers can use the results to reduce costs and increase the value of ‘Petch Pakchong’ in the future.