A cost curve for livestock auction markets was estimated using a frontier function estimator. This estimator has the advantages of consistency and asymptotic efficiency (for certain disturbance specifications). The one-sided residuals satisfy theoretical requirements for cost curves and allow...

A method is developed for estimating returns to food price reporting and store selection preference changing programs. The approach is demonstrated by an example. While the extimated return to preference changing is small, the direct savings for price reporting can be substantial. Further...

Perch fisherman in the Great Lakes yellow perch industry are found to use informal vertical exchange relationships which bind together fishermen and buyers through "moral obligations." These exchange arrangements while providing an assured outlet also raise substantial entry and exist barriers...