Reframing the Multilevel Triple Helix in a Regional Innovation System: A case of systemic foresight and regimes in renewal of Skane’s food industry

Most organizational findings on Triple Helix modes of interaction have originated in studies of high-tech sectors and emergent industries, whereas low-tech sectors and mature industries to a less extent have been explored in the Triple Helix literature. A foresight initiative aiming at an enhanced renewal of the mature food industry in the region of Skane, was conducted 2006-2007. Findings from the study suggest that a multilevel triple helix policy approach ought to be used in a more systemic way in mature industry branches. Since innovations rely on successful transitions through the long value chain in the heterogeneous food system, a mutual understanding and interaction between the actors is of vital importance. To promote such understanding, a systemic “bottom up approach” was taken in the foresight. The authors stress the importance of intermediating and intermediators in order to enhance the responsive abilities in the food innovation system. The use of cultural analysis to develop a deeper understanding of the different regimes that influence the actors is further suggested, since the actors are imprinted with values emergent from a time when the Swedish food system was based on national self-subsistence, with limited market competition.