Exploring the Internationalization Process, Behavior, and Patterns of Born Global Ride-Hailing Firms

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the internationalization process, behavior, and patterns of ride-hailing firms through the use of the born global firms (BGFs) internationalization model as a conceptual framework. The research method will be based on the purpose of the study. A multiple-case study is used to comprehensively analyze the phenomenon under investigation and explore the behavior and pattern between the case studies. Data was collected through documentation reviews such as a financial report, company portfolio, business plan, and previous research within the subject from seven ride-hailing firms to allow for triangulation. Data analysis of the study found seven themes to answer the research question. The finding suggests that ride-hailing firms: 1) Enter the home market as a pioneer, and the internationalization can be done as both pioneer, and follower. 2) Expand the market through the use of concentration or combination strategy. 3) Use wholly owned subsidiaries as their main entry form. 4) Ride hailing firms move from global standardization to local adaptation the longer they operate in a market. 5) Ride hailing firms prefer a born regional and born-again global internationalization model. The two limitations of this research are the research methodology and sampling strategy that limit the results' generalizability. The results will help to extend BGFs’ internationalization models and add, confirm, and provide new knowledge regarding the ride-hailing industry. They also provide resources for practice such as founders, managers, entrepreneurs, consultants, and coaches to understand how BGFs’ internationalization in the ride-hailing sector works.