International orientation: An antecedent-consequence model in Spanish agri-food cooperatives which are aware of the circular economy

In recent years, it has generally been admitted that sustainability is a condition which is supportive of success within internationalization processes. We adopt a model based on antecedents and consequences of internationalization within successful agri-food cooperatives involved in the circular economy in order to offer a comprehensive view about the variables that affect this decision. The methodological design includes two phases. Firstly, supported by a literature review both for social capital and responsible research and innovation, indicators are identified as specific antecedents of the international orientation of cooperatives, and the improvement of reputation and performance, as consequences. Secondly, the use of structural equation modelling is applied to a representative sample of cooperatives practicing the circular economy in Spain to demonstrate the empirical validity of the model. As management implications, cooperative managers can opt to reinforce their social capital and foster responsible research and innovation when a cooperative goes international, as a way to gain better reputation and performance and enter a virtuous circle. Policymakers can also use the set of indicators as a guide for future agri-food regulations.