Leveraging intellectual capital for sustainable innovation: a spatial analysis of resilience in the olive oil sector

Purpose This study, which emphasizes the olive oil business, analyses how Intellectual Capital (IC) operates in the agri-food sector, highlighting its valuable contribution to innovation. It also explores how consortium membership and proximity can impact the longevity of firms. Thus, strategic partnerships for Geographical Indications (GIs) in the olive oil sector could be vital for surviving continuing climate risks and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Design/methodology/approach Over nine years, 1,827 Italian olive oil firms underwent spatial analysis to evaluate the impact of physical proximity on forming strategic partnerships and sharing climatic risks within the same area. The spatial analysis and the map of climatic events were juxtaposed to assess the significance of collaboration among neighboring enterprises. Findings The study reveals that membership in the Consortium for the Protection of GIs shows spatial dependency, highlighting its significance for resilience in the agri-food sector. Overlapping climate risk areas with company clusters indicates that olive-growing is especially vulnerable to climate events. Collaboration among neighboring firms, supported by local authorities, is crucial for risk mitigation and economic sustainability. Originality/value This study broadens IC and sustainability research by exploring the relationship between IC and strategic alliances in the agri-food industry. It presents innovative perspectives on how IC can foster the sustainable growth of rural economies through spatial analysis, highlighting cooperation as a crucial aspect of resilience and innovation in the olive oil sector.