Entrepreneurial Orientation, International Operations, and Logistics Alliance Usage: Perspective From Australian SMEs

Abstract

At a time when small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are challenged with the international logistics disruptions, forming a large set of logistics alliance relationships has become a critical strategic matter for SMEs. The objective of this study is to examine the links between SME entrepreneurial orientation, international operations, and logistics alliance usage. Utilizing resource dependency theory and upper echelons theory, a model is tested using survey data from 222 Australian SME executives. The findings present a direct positive relationship between SME entrepreneurial orientation and logistics alliance usage. Moreover, the study finds that the link between entrepreneurial orientation and logistics alliance usage becomes stronger for the firms that participate in international operations.