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Sustainability-driven and high-growth SMEs: A paradox approach
[Las PYME de sostenibilidad impulsada y el alto crecimiento: Un enfoque por las paradojas]

Author

Listed:
  • Céline Bérard

    (COACTIS - COnception de l'ACTIon en Situation - UL2 - Université Lumière - Lyon 2 - UJM - Université Jean Monnet - Saint-Étienne)

  • Christelle Bruyere

    (COACTIS - COnception de l'ACTIon en Situation - UL2 - Université Lumière - Lyon 2 - UJM - Université Jean Monnet - Saint-Étienne)

  • Séverine Saleilles

    (SAF - Laboratoire de Sciences Actuarielle et Financière - UCBL - Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 - Université de Lyon)

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the paradoxical tensions that are present in sustainability-driven and high-growth SMEs, and the practices implemented to deal with such tensions. This research is based on a single-case study within a French SME, a pioneer in the organic sector. The study findings reveal four major paradoxical tensions that progressively deepen in the course of high-growth periods: normative and utilitarian identities, organic and external growth, exploration and exploitation, disorganization and structuring. They also suggest a set of strategic keys, allowing to manage paradoxical situations through the perspectives of dialogue and differentiation.

Suggested Citation

  • Céline Bérard & Christelle Bruyere & Séverine Saleilles, 2015. "Sustainability-driven and high-growth SMEs: A paradox approach [Las PYME de sostenibilidad impulsada y el alto crecimiento: Un enfoque por las paradojas]," Post-Print halshs-01354704, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:halshs-01354704
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://shs.hal.science/halshs-01354704
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    References listed on IDEAS

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