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Sustainability-driven entrepreneurship and high-growth SMEs: how to combine Davids' and Goliaths' worlds?

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  • Céline Bérard
  • Séverine Saleilles

Abstract

This paper aims to explore how sustainability-driven SMEs experiencing high growth can succeed in combining the best of the Davids' and Goliaths' worlds. An in-depth case study was conducted within a French SME, a pioneer in organic vegetable distribution that has succeeded in evolving from an 'idealistic David' to a 'high-growth David'. Research findings reveal two sets of key actions successfully carried out by this firm: the development of a hybrid organisation through a staff representing the skills of both Davids' and Goliaths' worlds, and of a learning organisation through exploration and exploitation. They also illustrate some challenges facing most high-growth SMEs and identify some specific tensions that can arise due to the coexistence of these two worlds, in particular value diversity within the top management team.

Suggested Citation

  • Céline Bérard & Séverine Saleilles, 2016. "Sustainability-driven entrepreneurship and high-growth SMEs: how to combine Davids' and Goliaths' worlds?," International Journal of Organisational Design and Engineering, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 4(3/4), pages 195-212.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijodei:v:4:y:2016:i:3/4:p:195-212
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