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Corporate Social Responsibility and Competitiveness within SMEs of the Fashion Industry: Evidence from Italy and France

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Our paper analyses the link between the adoption of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and competitiveness performance among small and medium enterprises operating in the fashion industry. The study refers to a sample of 213 SMEs (Small and Medium sized Enterprises) located in Italy and France and is based on a correlation analysis between competitiveness variables and the CSR practice adopted. The results show a significant correlation with regard to the innovation process, both from the technical and the organizational point of view, and the intangible performances. On the other hand, another competitiveness macro-category, which is the market performance (measured as demand trend, turnover and business attraction), presents deceptive results, although a positive correlation with the adoption of market-oriented CSR practice emerges. The study is explorative and represents a relevant basis to future studies concerning the nature of the emerged co-relations.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su6020872

Authors: Massimo Battaglia, Francesco Testa, Lara Bianchi, Fabio Iraldo, Marco Frey

Institution: Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna

Language: English

Topic: Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896