Management accounting systems to support stressing events: evidence from the food sector

Purpose: This study analyses how family-run businesses operating in the Italian food sector faced the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that affected the global economy, with the support of management accounting systems. Design/methodology/approach: The methodology used is based on a survey questionnaire conducted on Italian family firms involved in food business. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed. Findings: This study categorised the companies into three groups, according to their long-term orientation and the use of management accounting tools. The results highlight proactive versus passive companies that emphasise various recovery paths from the perspective of performance. Research limitations/implications: Limitations refer to the attention on a single country and the sample size. Practical implications: The main practical implication refers to management at different levels that should better understand how a clear long-term orientation can maintain the competitive position and pre-crisis performance. Originality/value: This study examines the measures launched by companies to address challenges originating from the COVID-19 pandemic.