THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMPETITIVE STRENGHT AND COPMPETITIVE SUPERIORITY OF SMES IN THE MANUFACTORING SECTOR IN ISTANBUL

Abstract

In today's world, rapidly changing technology and the globalising economy affect the competitive conditions of businesses while also creating new opportunities for them. It is crucial for businesses to adapt to this competitive environment in order to gain a competitive advantage. Based on this, the relationship between the competitive strength and competitive superiority of businesses was investigated in this study, which was designed as a quantitative research model. Following a detailed literature review, a theoretical model and research hypothesis were established within this framework. Appropriate scales were determined to measure the dependent and independent variables within the scope of the literature, and a questionnaire was used as the data collection tool. Within the scope of the research, a survey was conducted with 48,750 businesses operating in the manufacturing sector (NACE Section C) in Istanbul and registered in the KOSGEB database, using the contact information provided in the KOSGEB database, and valid responses were obtained from 788 businesses. Descriptive statistics and path analysis within the structural equation model were utilised to test the proposed theoretical model and developed hypothesis. The analyses revealed a statistically significant relationship between the competitive strength and competitive advantage of businesses.