Purpose: We consolidate fragmented knowledge on Ecuadorian Alternative Commercialization Circuits (CIALCOs) by profiling their consumers and identifying challenges for expansion. While Ecuadorian CIALCOs have evolved since the 1980s to emphasize producer-consumer relationships and sustainability, research on stakeholder profiles remains scarce. We fill this gap by synthesizing consumer characteristics and market barriers to inform Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC) policy and practice. Methods: A systematic review of 23 documents (2009–2020) was conducted, identifying six key themes through content analysis and statistical synthesis. Findings: A typical CIALCO consumer is a middle-aged female with secondary education, working or retired, from a household of 3-6 members. Consumers in Quito generally earn over USD$1000 monthly, while those outside Quito earn about half. They spend 2-33% of their income on CIALCOs, influenced by demographics and socioeconomics. These consumers perceive themselves as health-centric and socially engaged yet prioritize personal well-being over communal purchasing motivations. While pricing and service meet consumer expectations, infrastructure, waste management, and traceability remain key obstacles. Willingness to pay a premium suggests potential for market expansion, but gaps in digital outreach and operational efficiency must be addressed. Implications: Findings inform policy and practice by identifying key barriers to CIALCO scalability, such as infrastructure, digital outreach, and traceability. The study highlights actionable areas for improving SFSC operations and market accessibility, contributing to more sustainable and inclusive food systems in Ecuador. Limitations: Given the limited availability of indexed literature on Ecuadorian SFSCs, incorporating nonpeer-reviewed sources is essential to access local knowledge. These sources undergo transparent reporting to ensure reliability and relevance. The focus on fairs in the Andean region may overlook geographic and typological diversity within Ecuador’s CIALCOs. Future research should include diverse regions and typologies and explore the psychological and sociocultural motivations behind CIALCO consumption. Value: We provide the first systematic synthesis of Ecuador’s CIALCO consumer segment. This provide a basis for empirical research and strategic interventions in Ecuadorian SFSCs.