Title: Corporate social responsibility in family firms: an exploratory study in the southwest of Germany

Authors: Bernd Britzelmaier; Patrick Kraus; Holger Herbricht; Kathrin Zoll

Addresses: Pforzheim University, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany ' Pforzheim University, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany ' Pforzheim University, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany ' Pforzheim University, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to provide an in-depth analysis of the CSR approach of German family firms. The literature indicates that sparse research has addressed CSR in family firms, especially in a German context. Given the lack of knowledge in the field, this paper is rather explorative in nature. This research is guided by three research questions in order to analyse: 1) how family firms understand CSR, (ii) how family firms implement CSR; 2) to understand what the motives for such an engagement are. This research has applied an interpretive approach. The sample consists of five family firms located in Baden-Württemberg.

Keywords: corporate social responsibility; CSR; family firms; sustainability; sustainable development; Germany; family businesses; motivation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBG.2015.069708

International Journal of Business and Globalisation, 2015 Vol.14 No.4, pp.465 - 482

Received: 24 Jan 2014
Accepted: 10 Dec 2014
Published online: 29 May 2015 *

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