Application of Data Envelopment Analysis and Key Characteristics of Greek Agro-Firms

The purpose of this study is to investigate key characteristics for the competitiveness in Greek agro-firms during the time period 2004 to 2011, based on firm level financial data. The study attempts to determine the firms’ efficiency as well as the impact of exporting activity in agro-firms competitiveness, and more specifically in fisheries, farms with livestock and farms with fruits, vegetables and cereals. Although many empirical studies have been conducted relative to manufacturing firms’ financial characteristics, limited research exists on agro-food firms. The use of DEA method seems to be a very useful tool for efficiency assessment and identification of best practices in firms’ management for both managers and the Government as well in order to facilitate the growth of the agricultural sector. Application of Data Envelopment Analysis and Key Characteristics of Greek Agro-Firms