The internationalization process of agrifood firms: a proposed conceptual framework

Autor(es)

Santos, Alexandre Borges ^[1] ; Batalha, Mario Otavio ^[1] ; Larue, Bruno ^[2]

Afiliação do(s) autor(es)

^[1] Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Ind Engn, Sao Carlos - Brazil

^[2] Univ Laval, Dept Agr Econ & Consumer Sci, Quebec City, PQ - Canada

• Tipo de documento: Artigo Científico
• Fonte: BRITISH FOOD JOURNAL; v. 123, n. 4 DEC 2020.
• Citações Web of Science: 0

Resumo

Purpose This research seeks to develop a better understanding of internationalization patterns of agrifood firms and explains why different paths are adopted. Further, a conceptual framework to support public and private decision-making is proposed. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory qualitative research framework was developed featuring case studies about three highly internationalized Brazilian meat processing firms. Top managers were interviewed, and documents were collected to support the intraand crosscase analyses. Findings Results suggest that meat processing firms tend to adopt a dual internationalization pattern. Distribution-oriented foreign direct investment (FDI) is normally established gradually, whilst horizontal FDI - the establishment of foreign production facility - tends to be conducted through a fast-paced expansion mode. Interestingly, it was found that food safety issues play a central role in internationalization decisions. Originality/value An extension to the Uppsala model was provided by considering agrifood characteristics in the analysis. The results have broad appeal to managers and policymakers. Agribusiness managers could use the theoretical and empirical evidence to support their internationalization decisions. Policymakers can also use this research to gain a better understanding of how agrifood firms expand internationally to either attract or foster FDI. (AU)

• Processo FAPESP: 14/17426-3 - Competência essencial como direcionador para internacionalização: estudos de caso em multinacionais agroalimentares brasileiras
• Beneficiário: Alexandre Borges Santos
• Modalidade de apoio: Bolsas no Brasil - Doutorado