Title: The influence of the absorptive capacity and the position of the firm in the cluster on coopetition

Authors: Sérgio Begnini; Silvia S. Simi; Carlos Eduardo Carvalho

Addresses: Federal University of Fronteira Sul, Chapecó, Brazil ' University of Western Santa Catarina, Joaçaba, Brazil ' University of Western Santa Catarina, Chapecó, Brazil

Abstract: This research investigates the influence of absorptive capacity (ACAP) and the cluster's position on firm coopetition. The academic investigation of the relationships established between firms is fundamental. Three hypotheses were tested from the original data collection. The sample consisted of 77 firms from an agribusiness cluster. Structural equation modelling was used through SmartPLS 2.0 software. It is concluded that: 1) firm's ACAP influences its coopetition, that is, the more ACAP, the more coopetition will be generated; 2) relationships established in the cluster enable firms to maintain/improve their position; 3) the relationships held by the firm with other firms will impact its position in the cluster, and this position will influence its ability to cooperate. On practical issues, companies that participate in a cluster develop their capacity to act cooperation, becoming competitively stronger as they invest in learning.

Keywords: coopetition; competition; cooperation; absorptive capacity; position in the cluster; agribusiness; firms; strategic actions; external information; managers.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEBR.2022.126438

International Journal of Economics and Business Research, 2022 Vol.24 No.4, pp.533 - 554

Received: 13 Feb 2020
Accepted: 14 Mar 2021
Published online: 26 Oct 2022 *

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