Consultant to conduct an intern study for the apple sector in Lebanon (Particularly the districts of Bcharré and Zgharta)

The consultant will have to conduct a quantitative and qualitative studies of the apple sector.

A quantitative analysis of the apple sector

• Identify the varieties and market value of fresh and processed apples on the domestic market (identify sales channels > direct sale – sale through supermarkets, etc.), (based on data retrieve wholesalers of diagnostics in progress).
• Analyze the current demand for fresh and processed apples in the domestic market from the point of view of consumers and from the point of view of distribution points and the seasonal fluctuation of consumption and study the competition and provide an understanding of why distributors buy imported apples.
• Analyze geographic and socio-economic data of potential consumers.
• Analyze the distribution of fresh and processed apples on the market.

A qualitative analysis of the apple sector

• Evaluate the demand for fresh and processed apples such as chips, apple juice and vinegar, marmalade, jam, syrup and other products, etc. (depending on the level of consumption).
• Evaluate the reputation of the Qadisha apple and that of its competing varieties.
• Analyze consumer habits (Lebanese/foreign customers)
• Analyze distribution points, preferences and behaviors of distributors (Focus on large commercial structures which could provide opportunities (hotels, restaurants)
• Study the competition and understand why distributors buy imported apples.

The expected

• Quantitative and qualitative data which allows at least the different distribution/marketing channels to be clearly identified
• An analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the Lebanese domestic market sector.
• Recommendations for promoting the Qadisha apple (including in terms of marketing approach), maximizing its positioning on the market and seizing market growth opportunities.
• Levers and avenues of action to develop sales of fresh and processed apples from Qadisha, to Beirut and other Lebanese cities.

The consultant will work under the responsibility of the agriculture project manager and the coordinator of the Qadisha Durable project and will be required to collaborate with certain partners of the consortium: the Mediterranean relations manager of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the Chamber technician of agriculture of Isère in charge of monitoring the agricultural component.

Possible methodologies and expected deliverables:

• Collection of primary and secondary data from reliable sources.
• Use of quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques.
• Carrying out consumer surveys (with proposals for focus group-type tools) and interviews with sector experts.
• Development of forecasting models to estimate future demand.

Expected delivery:

The consultant must provide a detailed report including the results of the study, the analyzes carried out and the strategic recommendations. The report will be the subject of an oral restitution.