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On the relationship between size, capabilities and internationalisation: an explorative analysis of Italian subcontracting SMEs

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  • Bernardo Balboni
  • Guido Bortoluzzi
  • Roberto Grandinetti

Abstract

The relationship between firm size and internationalisation is a puzzling one. This paper adopts a resource-based perspective to provide an analysis of the relationship between the capabilities, size and internationalisation of industrial subcontractors, with the aim of deepening the understanding of this relationship. We focus on subcontracting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), since the increasing global fragmentation of production has modified their role within global supply networks. They are connective nodes able to provide to their clients both flexibility and effectiveness through their bridging capabilities. The results confirm the importance of specific capabilities in fostering subcontractors' internationalisation process. However, they also show that the importance of those capabilities changes substantially in subcontractors of different sizes.

Suggested Citation

  • Bernardo Balboni & Guido Bortoluzzi & Roberto Grandinetti, 2013. "On the relationship between size, capabilities and internationalisation: an explorative analysis of Italian subcontracting SMEs," International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 5(1/2), pages 114-132.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijgsbu:v:5:y:2013:i:1/2:p:114-132
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    Cited by:

    1. Mitja Ruzzier & Yusaf H. Akbar & Guido Bortoluzzi & Andrea Tracogna, 2017. "The Growth Challenge of Western SMES in Emerging Markets: An Exploratory Framework and Policy Implications," Managing Global Transitions, University of Primorska, Faculty of Management Koper, vol. 15(3 (Fall)), pages 291-314.
    2. Agustinus A. Toryanto & Hasyim, 2017. "Networking Quality and Trust in Professional Services," European Research Studies Journal, European Research Studies Journal, vol. 0(3A), pages 354-370.
    3. Antonín Korauš & Katarína Havierniková & Miroslav Gombár & Filip Černák & Miroslav Felcan, 2020. "Dimensions and their elements affecting the innovative activities of agricultural SMEs toward their sustainable development," Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues, VsI Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Center, vol. 8(2), pages 1142-1157, December.
    4. Guido Bortoluzzi & Marina Chiarvesio & Raffaella Tabacco, 2014. "Le imprese del Nord Est alla conquista dei mercati emergenti," ECONOMIA E SOCIET? REGIONALE, FrancoAngeli Editore, vol. 2014(2), pages 31-43.

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