A new procedure was developed based on a systematic step-by-step analysis of the SFSC businesses that helps to find solutions for eliminating the bottlenecks (BN) and strengthen the success factors (SF) by the application of technological and non-technological innovations for sustainable operation of the SFSC members and/or the SFSCs as a whole. The procedure has six steps: Step 1:Identify your current value proposition; Step 2:Analyze your situation (potentially by SWOT)-and identification of your SFs and BNs; Step 3:Identify applicable innovations using the Inventory; Step 4:Define necessary activities, tools and methods to implement these innovations; Step 5:Upgraded value propositions, added value; Step 6:Identification of the strategy(ies), preparation of the action plan

Through the application of technological-, (TECIs) and non-technological innovations (NTIs) (e.g. new methods, activities, tools, etc.), the current value propositions of the SFSC members and the SFSC as a whole can be upgraded to meet the consumer needs better. Thus, the appeal of the products and services of SFSCs is increased.