Local Gastronomic Points (LGPs) in Suceava and Bucovina. An Example of Neo-Entrepreneurship Supporting Rural Sustainable Development

Abstract

This paper explores the emerging role of Local Gastronomic Points (LGPs) as a form of neo-entrepreneurship supporting sustainable rural development in Suceava and the wider Bucovina region. Institutionalized through Romanian Law 412/2023, LGPs are small-scale, community-based culinary enterprises with the potential to stimulate rural economies, preserve cultural heritage, and promote circular, regenerative practices. Drawing on a systematic literature review covering 2010–2025, this study finds that LGPs enhance economic resilience, support local value chains, and reinforce entrepreneurial ecosystems by integrating traditional gastronomy with agroecology and sustainable tourism. Despite these promising roles, current literature lacks robust impact assessments, underscoring the need for future longitudinal and comparative studies. This research contributes to the growing discourse on food-based entrepreneurship, socio-cultural revitalization, and rural policy innovation.