The impact of past performance, firm capabilities and adaptation strategies on export performance: the case of Caribbean manufacturers

Joseph, Glenworth M. (2020) The impact of past performance, firm capabilities and adaptation strategies on export performance: the case of Caribbean manufacturers. PhD thesis, Birkbeck, University of London.

Abstract

This thesis integrates organisational learning theory and resource-based view (RBV) to foster greater understanding of how past export performance, firm capabilities and adaptation strategies influence current export performance. It offers a new analytical lens through which the dynamic nature of international trade can be captured. The study was conducted among export manufacturers operating in the English-speaking Caribbean. The conceptual model was empirically tested using structural equation modelling techniques and based on the responses of 274 export managers. The findings reveal that firm capabilities mediate the relationship between past export performance and current export performance; and that relationship is moderated by adaptation strategy. Firms that register high levels of satisfaction with past export performance would go on to return high levels of satisfaction with current year export performance. However, part of the effects on current export performance are as a result of the learning derived from past outcomes which strengthens firms’ confidence and commitment in their functional capabilities areas in the short term. The positive feedback loop encourages export managers to sustain these areas of advantage, which in turn goes on to positively impact current export performance. Adaptation in practices strengthens the impact of firm capabilities on current export performance where firm capabilities are low. Additionally, the study also contributes to the body of the management and business literature with a new conceptualisation and measurement of export performance, as well as a new geographical context i.e., the Caribbean. Therefore, the results presented in this thesis have implications for the development of organisational learning theory, RBV, international business strategy and markets literature. Managerial and policy implications are discussed.

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