Target group: Bachelor’s and Master’s students interested in business, digital transformation, sustainability, food systems and the Food and Beverages sector; SMEs; educators; facilitators supporting challenge-based learning.
Level: Introductory + Intermediate; optional advanced elements for learners interested in blockchain and traceability systems.
Estimated learning time: 4–6 hours
Format: Self-paced MOOC learning with short presentations, reflection tasks, practical worksheets and an optional technology-focused extension; applicable for trainer-facilitated Bootcamp or classroom activities
This module introduces the main challenges currently affecting Food and Beverages SMEs. It explores how supply chain disruptions, economic pressures, sustainability requirements, climate change, regulatory complexity and changing consumer expectations influence SME operations and innovation needs.
The module presents digital technologies as possible responses to selected sector challenges. Blockchain and traceability systems are used as one applied example of how digital tools can support transparency, compliance, food safety and consumer trust.
After completing the module, you will be able to:
The main topics included in the module are:
The module supports the DigiFABS objective of developing Responsible Dynamic Digital Change Agents by helping learners understand real-world pressures faced by F&B SMEs and evaluate digital responses in a responsible and practical way.
It develops digital skills, green and sustainability skills, resilience skills, change-agent skills and strategic thinking skills.
You will work with five short PPT presentations split from the original Challenges deck; one introductory video; four additional documents integrated into the learning pathway; practical worksheets, templates and reflection tasks for self-paced or trainer-facilitated use.
PART 1: Introduction to the module
1.1. INTRODUCTORY VIDEO: Challenges of F&B Sector
1.2. PPT PRESENTATION: 1_1_PPT PRESENTATION_Challenges of FB Sector – module overview
PART 2: Understanding F&B sector challenges and SME context
2.1. PPT PRESENTATION: 2_1_PPT PRESENTATION_FB sector challenges and SME context
2.2. WORKSHEET: 2_2_WORKSHEET_FB SME Challenge Mapping
PART 3: Digital responses and barriers for F&B SMEs
3.1. PPT PRESENTATION: 3_1_PPT PRESENTATION_Digital responses and barriers for FB SMEs
3.2. MATRIX: 3_2_MATRIX_Barriers vs Enablers for Digital Transformation
PART 4: Blockchain and traceability systems – OPTIONAL / ADVANCED TRACK
4.1. PPT PRESENTATION: 4_1_PPT PRESENTATION_Blockchain and traceability systems_ADVANCED
4.2. TEMPLATE: 4_2_TEMPLATE_Blockchain Traceability Use Case
PART 5: RDDCA role and first SME action
5.1. PPT PRESENTATION: 5_1_PPT PRESENTATION_RDDCA role and first SME action
5.2. REFLECTION TASK: 5_2_REFLECTION_RDDCA Digital Change Reflection Task
2_2_WORKSHEET_FB SME Challenge Mapping
Use after PART 2. Learners select one F&B SME or challenge case, identify the main challenge, evidence and signals, connect it with a digital opportunity and formulate a challenge statement.
3_2_MATRIX_Barriers vs Enablers for Digital Transformation
Use after PART 3. Learners identify barriers to digital adoption, match them with practical enablers and define the first realistic action.
4_2_TEMPLATE_Blockchain Traceability Use Case
Use after PART 4 as an optional / advanced activity. Learners assess whether blockchain, or a simpler traceability tool, is relevant for a specific SME case.
5_2_REFLECTION_RDDCA Digital Change Reflection Task
Use after PART 5 as the final reflection. Learners apply the RDDCA perspective by clarifying the problem, stakeholders, ethical and practical questions, and the first small step.
Recommended flow:
PPT input → worksheet / matrix / template / reflection → short team discussion → SME-oriented output.
