ABSTRACT
This research explores the food acculturation process of business expatriates and their families in the context of a temporary expatriation. More specifically, we analyse the various cultural influences that come into play in the process of food acculturation among expatriates and their families living in France. To do this, we conducted 25 interviews with American, British and German expatriates, using the life-story method. The results allow us to identify different modes of food acculturation and to highlight various cultural influences (culture of origin, national and regional host cultures, subcultures of the host country, transnational cultures) on the expatriate’ food purchasing and consumption behaviours. In addition, our study suggests a number of drivers for better meeting the eating needs of expatriates. These recommendations are addressed both to food retailers and to companies employing expatriates.
