Towards a Circular Business Model in the Olive Oil Supply Chain: A Systematic Literature Review and Conceptual Framework

The olive oil sector is one of the most important agri-food chains, but it is also characterised by the production of large volumes of solid and liquid by-products which, if improperly managed, have a significant environmental impact. In this context, circular economy approaches have been increasingly proposed to improve sustainability through the valorisation of by-products. This study investigates whether it is possible to conceptualise a circular business model for the olive oil supply chain by integrating by-products into the production system itself. The research adopts a systematic review of the literature supported by bibliometric techniques. The results show that current studies focus mainly on the technological and environmental aspects of by-product valorisation, particularly chemical extraction processes and environmental impact assessment, while the organisational, supply chain and governance dimensions remain fragmented. Based on these findings, the study develops an emerging conceptual framework that integrates by-product valorisation, supply chain configuration and enabling conditions, such as partnerships and political support, into a circular business model perspective. The study concludes that a circular business model for the olive oil supply chain is conceptually and technically feasible, but its implementation requires a systemic and integrated approach at the supply chain level rather than isolated technological solutions.