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Keeping One’s Options Open: Intermittent Exporting, Family Control, and Foreign Background

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  • Andrea Kuiken
  • Lucia Naldi
  • Mohamed Genedy

Abstract

Intermittent exporting (repeatedly exiting and reentering foreign markets) is often associated with the initial stages of internationalization. However, some small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including family firms, pursue an intermittent exporting strategy beyond the initial stages. Drawing on a refinement of the behavioral agency model (BAM) and real options reasoning, we theorize that a high level of family involvement in SMEs is positively associated with intermittent exporting. We also argue that this relationship is moderated by Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and board members with a foreign background. We test our hypotheses using a unique longitudinal dataset of Swedish SMEs in the manufacturing and retail industries.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrea Kuiken & Lucia Naldi & Mohamed Genedy, 2024. "Keeping One’s Options Open: Intermittent Exporting, Family Control, and Foreign Background," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 48(5), pages 1160-1190, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:48:y:2024:i:5:p:1160-1190
    DOI: 10.1177/10422587231226113
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