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The influence of competition on international sourcing strategies in the service sector

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  • Gleich, Wolfgang
  • Schmeisser, Bjoern
  • Zschoche, Miriam

Abstract

Rising importance of service industries and international trade in services led to increased competition in the service sector. The aim of this study is to analyze the international sourcing behavior of service firms as a strategic means to contend with competition. Our theoretical predictions suggest that there is a U-shaped relationship between a service firm’s domestic competitive position and its pursuit of international sourcing: the relationship is first negative and at later stages positive. The international sourcing behavior of domestic competitors and inward investments of foreign rivals are expected to positively affect a service firm’s international sourcing magnitude. A large-scale empirical analysis using a panel of 579 German service firms supports our hypotheses.

Suggested Citation

  • Gleich, Wolfgang & Schmeisser, Bjoern & Zschoche, Miriam, 2017. "The influence of competition on international sourcing strategies in the service sector," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 26(2), pages 279-287.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:iburev:v:26:y:2017:i:2:p:279-287
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ibusrev.2016.07.005
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    3. Asimakopoulos, Grigorios & Revilla, Antonio & Rodríguez, Alicia, 2023. "International R&D sourcing, innovation and firm age: The advantage of ‘born-international sourcers’," Technovation, Elsevier, vol. 122(C).
    4. Driffield, Nigel & Pereira, Vijay & Temouri, Yama, 2019. "Does offshore outsourcing impact home employment? Evidence from service multinationals," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 103(C), pages 448-459.

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