Abstract
The general objective of this paper was to determine how companies in the olive sector could convert the comparative advantages of olive-growing regions (e.g., culture, tradition, raw materials, knowledge, infrastructure, networks, technological centers, etc.) into competitive advantages, to internationalize, in an accelerated way, and become born global firms, contributing to economic, social, and sustainable development of regions. Thus, we analyzed four cases of exporting companies in this sector (two born global and two non-born global) in southern Spain (Jaén). We chose this province because it is the world’s leading producer of olive oil and, yet it is only the fourth largest exporter compared to the rest of Spain. For the case study, we conducted (and recorded) personal, semi-structured interviews with the founders/managers or individuals in charge of internationalization. To obtain our results, we used a data sheet that included an action protocol, we analyzed each case individually, and we employed sensemaking and pattern-matching techniques to add validity and reliability to the research. Finally, we proposed the “keys” for these companies to go international in an accelerated way, as it would increase their competitiveness, foster the creation of employment, develop networks between companies, boost investment in innovation, etc. The results indicate that it is necessary to follow market orientation, networking, and international entrepreneurship strategies, and that intellectual capital (human, organizational, relational, and technological) of companies (and, therefore, of regions) will be the means through which competitive capabilities are achieved.
Highlights
IntroductionSpain produced 40% of the world’s olive in 2020/2021, followed by Italy (35%).Andalusia, in southern Spain, has the highest production of olive oil in the world (seeFigure 1); within it, the province of Jaén is dominant (see Figure 2)
Spain produced 40% of the world’s olive in 2020/2021, followed by Italy (35%).Andalusia, in southern Spain, has the highest production of olive oil in the world; within it, the province of Jaén is dominant
The province is the global leader in olive oil production, Jaén does not export the most, it is placed after Sevilla, Córdoba y Malaga
Summary
Spain produced 40% of the world’s olive in 2020/2021, followed by Italy (35%).Andalusia, in southern Spain, has the highest production of olive oil in the world (seeFigure 1); within it, the province of Jaén is dominant (see Figure 2). In southern Spain, has the highest production of olive oil in the world Information and Control Agency (AICA) of Spain, this province produced 387,391 metric tons of olive oil in the above-mentioned years, representing 44.9% of Andalusia’s total [1]. The province is the global leader in olive oil production, Jaén does not export the most, it is placed after Sevilla, Córdoba y Malaga. Jaén, located in Andalusia, southern Spain (see Figure 3), has one of the lowest per capita incomes in the country. One reason is due to the low level of industrialization and the high specialization of the olive sector. Under these circumstances, it is essential to undertake measures to help develop this region. Export expansion would help increase the GDP and, the per capita income
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
