Small firm internationalization and business strategy: an exploratory study of 'knowledge-intensive' and 'traditional' manufacturing firms in the UK

Bell, J., Crick, D. and Young, S. (2004) Small firm internationalization and business strategy: an exploratory study of 'knowledge-intensive' and 'traditional' manufacturing firms in the UK. International Small Business Journal, 22(1), pp. 23-56. (doi: 10.1177/0266242604039479)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore the linkages between the overall business strategies of small firms and their patterns, processes and pace of internationalization. A qualitative approach was adopted, involving 30 indepth interviews with key decision makers of internationalizing small firms based in 3 UK regions (15 ‘knowledge-intensive’ and 15 ‘traditional’ firms). The findings suggest that business policies, including those linked to ownership and/or management changes, had an important influence upon the international orientation of many firms. There were close relationships between product policies and market focus, with product or process innovation often providing an important stimulus to international expansion. However, differences existed in the patterns, processes and pace of internationalization between small ‘knowledge-intensive’ and ‘traditional’ manufacturing firms. The implications of these results on firm strategy, public policy and theory development are discussed and a series of research questions are postulated for future investigation.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Young, Professor Stephen
• Authors: Bell, J., Crick, D., and Young, S.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
• Journal Name: International Small Business Journal
• ISSN: 0266-2426
• ISSN (Online): 1741-2870