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Competitively Distinct Operations as a Key for Superior and Sustainable Business Performance: An Example from Walmart

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  • Binod Timilsina

    (University of Vaasa, Finland)

Abstract

Existing research on the resource-based view (RBV) has provided limited evidence on how firms achieve superior and sustainable business performance; this failure is because current literature de-emphasizes the importance of operations. This paper argues that to gain and sustain superior business performance, a firm’s sustainable competitive advantage is not enough, its operations also needs to be competitively distinct. Therefore, through unifying the necessary conditions of superior and sustainable business performance the paper presents a better understanding of the RBV. The success story of Walmart, from existing literature, is considered as an example to support the proposed framework. The paper concludes that the cost of operations, opportunity cost, cost of resources and possible output are the crucial factors in resource choice and operations decision to secure competitively distinct operations. Finally, theoretical and managerial implications, research limitations and future research possibilities are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Binod Timilsina, 2015. "Competitively Distinct Operations as a Key for Superior and Sustainable Business Performance: An Example from Walmart," Management, University of Primorska, Faculty of Management Koper, vol. 10(3), pages 273-292.
    • Handle: RePEc:mgt:youmng:v:10:y:2015:i:3:p:273-292
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Nilufer Nilufer, 2020. "Critical assessment on business strategy from aviation to retail industry during COVID-19 Pandemic: A WalMart Case," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 2(2), pages 8-14, April.

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