Empowering Change From Within: A Human‐Centred Approach to Digital Transformation in an Italian Food Sector SME

ABSTRACT

This study examines the challenges of digital transformation in the food sector, emphasising the strategic role of human resources (HR) as enablers of technological change. Drawing on the concept of organisational rent, it explores how sustainability‐oriented HR practices support digital adoption and enhance both economic and social performance. Using a qualitative single‐case methodology that integrates primary and secondary data, the research investigates Geldi, an Italian family‐owned SME operating in the food service sector and characterised by an HR‐driven approach to digital transformation. The findings indicate that digital transformation is frequently hindered by cultural resistance, skills shortages and operational pressures. A participatory, bottom‐up strategy rooted in social sustainability promotes employee engagement, facilitates technological integration and strengthens organisational climate and performance. The study contributes to the literature by proposing a human‐centred model that integrates three complementary theoretical perspectives and by outlining practical implications for practitioners seeking to foster digital transformation within their organisations.