Does ISO 9001 certification benefit micro-SMEs? Empirical evidence from the industry

This paper examines the benefits obtained from ISO 9001 certification by micro-SMEs in the olive oil industry in Greece. A large number of studies have focused on the analysis of benefits and the impacts of ISO 9001 certification, but similar studies of micro-SMEs, do not exist leaving a valuable sector of business economy without important analysis. Likewise, despite the acknowledged contribution of the olive oil industry to the global economy, little evidence has been recorded on its association with ISO 9001 certification. The present research adopted a qualitative approach, employing several case studies to provide key insights into olive oil companies' perception of the benefits derived from the adoption of ISO 9001. In interviews with management, site visits, personal observation, off-the record discussions with employees and study of documents, five organisations were examined. The findings demonstrated that micro-SMEs examined experienced a number of benefits from ISO 9001 certification, as has already demonstrated for large companies such as increased employee productivity, customer satisfaction and competitiveness. Academics and practitioners may benefit from this evidence and the enhanced awareness and understanding of the subject.