PRODUCT INNOVATION AND ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE AMONG DAIRY COOPERATIVES
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between product innovation and organizational performance in dairy cooperatives.
Statement of the Problem: Despite growing recognition of product innovation as a driver of competitiveness in the dairy sector, empirical and cooperative-focused evidence remains limited. Existing studies often lack causal analysis and provide insufficient understanding of how innovation practices translate into measurable performance outcomes within dairy cooperatives.
Methodology: The study adopted a desktop review methodology, synthesizing global, regional, and sector-specific literature from peer-reviewed articles, institutional reports, market analyses, and technological assessments related to dairy innovation and performance.
Findings: The findings indicate that product innovation significantly enhances organizational performance by supporting product diversification, advanced processing, and market alignment. New product development strengthens differentiation in functional dairy categories, value-added processing improves efficiency and market penetration, and market responsiveness enables adaptation to evolving consumer trends.
Conclusion: The study concludes that product innovation is a critical determinant of competitiveness and long-term viability in dairy cooperatives.
Recommendations: The study recommends that dairy cooperatives strengthen innovation capacity through technological investment, institutional coordination, and structured market intelligence systems.
Keywords: Product innovation, New product development, Value-added processing, Market responsiveness, Dairy cooperatives
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