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The B2B relationship in industrial companies from the position of hidden champions: knowledge-intensive services for small business

Author

Listed:
  • Aimar Basañez-Zulueta
  • Jon Barrutia-Güenaga
  • Arturo Rodriguez-Castellanos
  • Emelina Gracia-Ramos

Abstract

SME access to advanced services is explored from a business and territorial perspective. Based on the term knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS), advanced services are conceptualised from this approach to define the existence of a KIBS function, which is not necessarily linked to organic structures explicitly declared as KIBS. A theoretical framework in which hidden champions are linked to KIBS has been established for this purpose and two propositions have been set forth. A qualitative analysis is used in two territories, the Basque Country (Spain) and the department of Antioquia (Colombia) to check them. The propositions were confirmed in both territories and a comparative analysis was also performed, which increases the robustness of results as the two areas belong to different geo-economic zones. The main conclusion is that hidden champions can act as KIBS to benefit SMEs in the area and territory where they are located.

Suggested Citation

  • Aimar Basañez-Zulueta & Jon Barrutia-Güenaga & Arturo Rodriguez-Castellanos & Emelina Gracia-Ramos, 2024. "The B2B relationship in industrial companies from the position of hidden champions: knowledge-intensive services for small business," International Journal of Business Environment, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 15(3/4), pages 384-407.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijbenv:v:15:y:2024:i:3/4:p:384-407
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