Perception of the Purchasing Process for Cost Reduction in Raspberry Agribusiness in San Quintin

ABSTRACT: The purchasing process in raspberry production, a high-value crop, is a determining factor in operating costs and agribusiness competitiveness. This study aimed to determine the perceptions of decision-makers in raspberry-producing companies in the San Quintin Valley regarding the relationship between purchasing process management and cost reduction. An explanatory, mixed-methods, cross-sectional study was conducted, using a structured questionnaire to 17 industry professionals. Nonparametric analysis techniques, specifically Spearman's correlation, were used to evaluate the relationships between key variables such as purchasing organization, prices, quality, purchasing frequency, and perception of final cost. The results showed significant correlations (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01), highlighting a strong relationship between purchasing organization and prices paid (ρ = 0.852), as well as between the perception of the influence of the purchasing system on the final price and total operating costs (ρ = 0.633). This evidence supports the hypothesis that the implementation of structured, planned, and strategic purchasing processes has a positive impact on cost reduction. It is concluded that fostering an organizational culture focused on professionalized purchasing management is essential for the sustainability and profitability of raspberry agribusinesses in the region.