Abstract
There is a paucity of studies on collaboration within Agri-Food SMEs in Northern Ireland (N.I.) and, in particular, studies on collaboration ventures focused on horizontal integration. This study addresses collaboration in the form of horizontal integration within Agri-Food SMEs and investigates the relationship between horizontal integration and an organisational wide approach to innovation.There were four stages to the research. Stage 1 and 2 gained an overview of the innovation orientation of twenty Agri-Food SMEs within N.I. Stage 3 of the research built on the findings from Stages 1 and 2 and provided an in-depth analysis of a single Agri-Food case study representative of a collaborative venture focused on a horizontal integration. Stage 4 of the research added additional insights to stage 3 of the research by analysing fourteen Agri-Food SMEs engaged in a similar type of collaborative venture.
The findings from each stage of the research culminated in the development of a final conceptual model that both Agri-Food SMEs and institutional support can consult when considering entering into or further developing a collaborative venture focused on horizontal integration as a method to support the innovation capabilities of Agri-Food SMEs. The model presents a tiered approach and interlinks the key characteristics, knowledge transfer, positive outcomes and positive impact on the domains of innovation of participating Agri-FoodSMEs. This tiered approach is significant as it provides a comprehensive model that outlines a detailed synopsis of the key stages in a collaborative venture focused on horizontal integration. The final model highlights the significant role collaboration focused on horizontal integration can have on the innovation capabilities of Agri-Food SMEs.
| Date of Award | 1 Jan 2009 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Rodney McAdam (Supervisor) & Adele Dunn (Supervisor) |