Title: Using path analysis to uncover the effects of speed of internationalisation: the full mediation of scale speed on performance

Authors: Ana Rodrigues; Fernando Carvalho; Ângelo Cabral; André Alves

Addresses: Centre for Business and Economics Research (CeBER), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ' Centre for Business and Economics Research (CeBER), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ' Centre for Business and Economics Research (CeBER), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ' Centre for Business and Economics Research (CeBER), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Macau Scientific and Cultural Centre, Rua da Junqueira, no. 30, R. da Junqueira 30, 1300-343 Lisbon, Portugal

Abstract: This research investigates the effects of the speed of internationalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises on their international performance. The gaps that we intend to address are the lack of definition and measures for the concept of speed of internationalisation and the real impact it has on the international performance of companies. In this context, we used three dimensions to assess speed of internationalisation entry into the international market, geographic scope, and international scale. The study, involving 682 Portuguese SMEs, found a direct and positive relationship between firms' international scale speed and their overall performance. This investigation revealed indirect relationships between variables as well. The earlier a company enters the international market, the faster it will achieve a diverse geographic scope and more international sales. The findings suggest that companies that take less time to reach international sales perform better overall. Our findings contribute to the study of speed of internationalisation and its relationship to international performance. Furthermore, in terms of managerial contributions, we warn of the risks that exist during various stages of internationalisation, as well as the benefits and advantages that managers should be aware of to improve overall performance levels.

Keywords: speed of internationalisation; SoI; entry speed; scope speed; scale speed.

DOI: 10.1504/EMJM.2024.144335

EuroMed Journal of Management, 2024 Vol.6 No.4, pp.319 - 336

Received: 03 Aug 2024
Accepted: 30 Sep 2024
Published online: 07 Feb 2025 *

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