Management accounting systems to support stressing events: evidence from the food sector

Abstract

PurposeThis study analyses how family-run businesses operating in the Italian food sector faced the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that affected the global economy, with the support of management accounting systems.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology used is based on a survey questionnaire conducted on Italian family firms involved in food business. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed.FindingsThis study categorised the companies into three groups, according to their long-term orientation and the use of management accounting tools. The results highlight proactive versus passive companies that emphasise various recovery paths from the perspective of performance.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations refer to the attention on a single country and the sample size.Practical implicationsThe main practical implication refers to management at different levels that should better understand how a clear long-term orientation can maintain the competitive position and pre-crisis performance.Originality/valueThis study examines the measures launched by companies to address challenges originating from the COVID-19 pandemic.