Firm capabilities, export diversification, and crisis affectedness: A study of Polish exporters during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–2021
Firm capabilities, export diversification, and crisis affectedness: A study of Polish exporters during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–2021

Author(s): Marian Gorynia, Piotr Trąpczyński
Subject(s): Economy, Business Economy / Management, Micro-Economics, Management and complex organizations, Sociology of the arts, business, education, Economic development
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Ekonomicznego w Poznaniu
Keywords: firm capabilities;crisis affectedness;export diversification;exporting firms;COVID-19 pandemic;
Summary/Abstract: Purpose: This chapter investigates the factors influencing a company’s vulnerability to economic crises, particularly focusing on the role of firm capabilities and export diversification. In light of the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, the study explores how these variables interact to shape a company’s resilience in the face of crisis. Design/methodology/approach: This study utilises primary data collected from Polish exporters in 2022, allowing for a retrospective analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact. Drawing on the resource-based view and firm internationalisation theories, the research formulates hypotheses concerning the relationships between firm capabilities (marketing and technological) and crisis affectedness, moderated by export diversification. Findings: Both marketing and technological capabilities have a negative impact on a company’s vulnerability to economic crises. However, this effect is more pronounced for companies with lower export diversification. In contrast, highly diversified exporters show reduced sensitivity to firm capabilities in mitigating crisis affectedness. Research limitations/implications: This study focuses on Polish exporters in a post-transition economy, which may differ from firms in other economic contexts. Additionally, the research explores a specific crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and its effects on export-oriented companies. Further research is needed to generalize these findings to other crises andregions. Practical implications: The findings suggest that companies should invest in marketing and technological capabilities to enhance resilience during crises, especially if they have a limited international diversification strategy. Highly diversified exporters may need to balance their focus on capabilities with broader market approaches. Originality and value: This research contributes to the understanding of how firm capabilities and export diversification interact to influence a company’s vulnerability to economic crises, with practical implications for exporters navigating turbulent times in a globalized world. The study sheds light on the complexities of resilience-building strategies in post-transition economies and underlines the importance of adaptability in international business.

• Details
• Contents