Interesting dissertation with a topic that applies to the development of SMEs in the print media industry. This study examines the barriers that companies need to overcome in order to achieve growth, mitigate decline and thus transition to the next life cycle stage. The barriers considered in this research are related to the four life cycle stages: start-up, scale-up, maturity and decline. A teacher can get the necessary information for a number of lectures in this area.
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The study on SMEs in the Dutch graphical media and printing industry presents a thought-provoking exploration into the challenges faced by businesses at different life cycle stages.
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SMEs stand at the core of our economy. Their growth and survival is therefore vital for a flourishing economy. However, not all SMEs are able to survive let alone grow in today’s fast paced business world. This study investigates which obstacles have to be overcome by businesses to realize growth, mitigate decline and thus transition into the next life cycle stage. Obstacles considered in this research are related to the 4 life cycle stages: start-up, scale-up, maturity and decline. 1230 SMEs in the Dutch graphical media and printing industry were researched by way of an online questionnaire to obtain data. A total of 87 complete questionnaires were returned. The data does not lend support to any of the hypothesised obstacles linked to the life cycle stages. This is a surprising finding as previous literature has shown a clear link between obstacles and life cycle stages. The findings may help SMEs who are seeking to grow in a declining sector.
As for the entrepreneurs it is advisable that they keep educating themselves on the newest technologies and look for potential partnerships when necessary. Keeping a status-quo in a declining sector is hard enough but when combined with a pandemic, serious problems may occur. Thus, to mitigate decline of the firm it is necessary to stay active and keep innovating. Owner-managers might even need to consider moving from being a product focussed business to becoming a more service focussed business.
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