Identifying Firm Resources and Capabilities for Successful Export: The Case of Regional SME Premium Food Producers

Abstract Identifying factors that inform export activities has received attention in the literature, but there are fewer studies examining the resources and capabilities required by SMEs operating in regional areas. Small businesses face a number of challenges including resource constraints and lack of access to financial capital. For SMEs operating in regional, rural and remote areas, these challenges are amplified. Using the lens of Resource-Based theory, this study aims to identify specific resources and capabilities that enable small premium food producers to undertake export into foreign markets. This exploratory study utilized semi-structured interviews with (N = 7) SMEs operating in Tasmania, Australia. This research extends the usefulness of the Uppsala model by offering a coherent understanding of some of the specific requirements for exporting activity and illustrates how small firms can harness exporting resources and capabilities.